Be a Social Helper

Are you wondering what school might be like this year? Many kids get a little anxious about the new year beginning.

While it probably won’t take long for you to feel at home, we wanted to pass on some ideas that might help.

What does ‘social’ mean?

When we say someone is social (SO-shul), we mean that he or she gets along with others. They make the right choices. They respond to others’ needs. They are good companions, friends and members of the school community.

Sometimes, kids might feel that they don’t fit in or that they don’t belong. We all have “social problems” at one time or another.

Be a social helper

That’s where a social helper might step in. These students are aware of the clues when a classmate is in need of a friend, a smile, a pat on the back or a compliment.

By being sensitive to the feelings of others and doing something that helps, kids get a good feeling themselves. True, kids can’t solve all problems, but they can help. It’s the job of teachers, principals and counselors to help, too.

Kids who are sensitive to others’ feelings also have these traits: Let’s think about some clues of social problems and what a solution might be. Mini Idea: Think about how good it feels for you to receive a smile or a compliment. You can make someone else feel that good!

In the lunchroom

Clue: A girl is sitting at a lunch table. Nobody is sitting on either side of her. She feels very alone.

Suggestion for social helpers: Go and sit in one of the vacant seats next to her. Talk about something you think she might be interested in. Enjoy lunchtime together.

On a school bus

Clue: One kid is teasing another kid, who is getting upset at being picked on.

Suggestion for social helpers: Ask the kid being teased to come and sit by you so she can move away from the teaser.

On the playground

Clue: A boy is walking around the edge of the playground by himself. He is not taking part in any games.

Suggestion for social helpers: Walk up to the kid with a smile on your face and ask him to join in your group.

photo by David Woo/flickr By reaching out to kids you don’t know, you may make new friends.

photo by Guian Bolisay/flickr