Friendship

Social Smarts means paying attention to the people and situations around us. When students learn to notice how others may be feeling, listen to understand, respect different perspectives, and think about how their words and actions affect others, they build stronger relationships and help create a school where everyone feels understood, respected, and included. 

Friendship at school can look like:  

• Including others and inviting classmates to join activities

• Using kind words and respectful language

• Listening when others are speaking

• Celebrating differences and accepting others for who they are

• Solving conflicts respectfully

• Being a good teammate and classmate

• Standing up for others and choosing kindness

Why does friendship matter? 

• Helps students feel connected and supported

• Builds confidence and a sense of belonging

• Strengthens communication and teamwork skills

• Encourages empathy, kindness, and respect

• Creates a positive and welcoming school environment

• Supports students' social, emotional, and academic success

How Mrs. Tammen promotes friendship 

• Classroom Lessons: Teaching age-appropriate lessons that focus on friendship skills, kindness, empathy, communication, and problem-solving. 

• Building a Positive School Community:  Encouraging students to include others, celebrate differences, and help create a school culture where everyone feels they belong. 

• Conflict Resolution: Helping students learn healthy ways to work through disagreements, repair relationships, and understand different perspectives.  

• Collaboration with Families & Teachers: Partnering with adults to reinforce respectful behavior, positive relationships, and social-emotional growth both at school and at home. 

• Student Support: Meeting with students individually or in small groups to help navigate friendships, solve problems, develop social skills, and feel supported throughout the school year.