“Beginning/Belonging”
Every school year presents a whole list of new beginnings, for each student, staff member and parent. There is a new grade, a new classroom, a new teacher, and maybe a new set of classmates. Routines will be different, and there could be many other firsts we don’t expect. Parents and Staff will also be experiencing changes and they deserve understanding.
New beginnings can be both thrilling and daunting at the same time. Students need to be encouraged to understand that these are normal reactions to change. It is important for parents to establish a line of communication with their children’s teachers, and teachers with parents about what they see and hear. Discussing these challenges at the beginning of school is important to alleviate the fears or anxieties the students may experience.
New beginnings present an opportunity to break free from old routines, habits and limitations. This is the time to be the “ME” you always wanted to be. Seeking the enjoyment of new beginnings is the key. Encourage change as the opportunity to grow and succeed.
One of the other crucial challenges is fitting in and having a sense of belonging. Some of the thoughts and questions that will arise can be, will the teacher recognize my abilities and strengths? Will my new teacher understand me? Will I succeed in this grade? Will I make friends that get me? These can trigger thoughts of self-doubt and uncertainty. These can vary depending on the age of the child. Students need to be motivated to seek support for the challenges they might be experiencing. Teachers and parents need to be open to discussing these concerns with students, listening is the key.
All humans have an intrinsic need to belong. This starts in school every year. It is not just a feeling of “fitting in” but to be accepted, valued, included and affirmed by others. We all need to realize that this opportunity is a great life lesson for us all. We can work together to show our children the importance of a trusting and open environment where they are supported and encouraged to share their feelings and be their best selves.
If we all commit to work together to ensure that each student feels included, we have the opportunity to make each child succeed.
Judy McCormick MA
Coordinator of Community Education
The Samaritan Center at the Jersey Shore
