Kiwi Can talks ‘respect’

The Kiwi Can programme has kicked off again for 2021 in 17 primary schools around Marlborough, – teaching children important values and lifelong skills that they need to be successful in the workplaces of the future, and to become contributing members of their communities.

This term, Kiwi Can children are learning all about respect, which is explained as ‘‘treating people, things and places as important’’.

In 2021 the weekly Kiwi Can lessons will focus on modules including: Respect for our school. Respect for our community Respect for our environment. Time to talk

‘‘The most precious gift you can give someone is the gift of your time and undivided attention.’’

How about talking with the children in your life about respect? Why not chat with your grandchildren, your mokopuna, your next-door neighbours! By spending time listening to their ideas and sharing your wisdom, you can help reinforce and extend their learning beyond the school gate. Here are a dozen simple conversation starters to get the ball rolling…

1. What does respect mean to you?

2. What are some ways we can show respect?

3. Who do you know that is very respectful? What have you seen them do? 4. Why is it important to look after the place we work and play in?

5. What are 3 ways we can care for and show respect for (and at) your school?

6. How can you show pride in your school if you are representing your school somewhere in the community, as in a sports team or performing at a concert?

7. What are some ways we can show respect for others – at home, at school, in a team or club, or out in our community?

8. What would our town be like if everyone showed kindness to each other?

9. What are some ‘‘communities’’ you are a part of that you contribute to – and how? (Think about classroom community, sports team, family, club etc). 10. Why is it important that you contribute to your community? How can we encourage others to contribute to our community?

11. In what ways could we show respect for our environment? Why should we respect the environment even if other people don’t?

12. If you had the power to change one thing that other people do – what would you change, and why?

We publish Kiwi Can news once a school term. Primarily it is for grandparents or family members to encourage important discussions with Marlborough’s primary school-aged children. This term’s topic or theme is ‘respect’. Who can deny that respect for self and others isn’t an issue for us adults as well to learn and practise? Ed.)

Children at Mayfield School get active with their Kiwi Can Leaders.