When it comes to raising 9-year-olds, community and a sense of belonging are essential for their social emotional development. At this age, children are becoming more independent and are exploring the world around them. They are eager to make friends and find their place in this big world. Parents and educators can support this development by creating a strong sense of community and belonging.
So, how do we do it?
- Encourage group activities
Group activities are a great way to promote a sense of community among 9-year-olds. Whether it’s choir practice, soccer games or art classes, when children come together to work on a common goal, they learn to appreciate each other’s differences and strengths. Encouraging group activities, can help children form friendships, build teamwork skills and develop a sense of belonging.
- Foster open communication
It’s important for parents and educators to foster open communication with 9-year-olds. Children at this age are experiencing their emotions in complex ways, that can sometimes be overwhelming. Creating a safe space where they can express themselves without fear of judgment is vital. This can be achieved by encouraging them to share their feelings, and actively listening to them, and validating what they say. When children feel heard, they feel validated and supported, which can go a long way in helping them feel like they belong.
- Practice empathy
Empathy is an integral part of social emotional development, and it’s a skill that can be taught. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. This can be practiced by encouraging 9-year-olds to put themselves in other people’s shoes. When they can understand and empathize with their peers, it becomes easier for them to form meaningful friendships and sense of community. They learn that being kind and helpful to others can provide social rewards.
- Teach social skills
Social skills like communication, cooperation, and problem-solving are essential for developing healthy relationships. Parents and educators need to teach children how to communicate assertively, actively listen, and speak up kindly. When children learn how to work cooperatively with others, it helps them develop a sense of belonging and community. They not only know how to express themselves, but also how to be respectful and supportive of others.
- Create shared experiences
Creating shared experiences is a powerful way to establish a sense of community and belonging among 9-year-olds. An activity like a camping trip or a class play can help children bond over shared experiences. When they reflect and reminisce on these moments together, it strengthens their connection to one another.
- Celebrate individuality
Finally, it’s important for parents and educators to celebrate individuality in 9-year-olds. When children are allowed to be themselves, they begin to appreciate the diversity of the world around them. Celebrating individuality means acknowledging the unique qualities of each child, and encouraging them to express their most authentic selves. This appreciation for uniqueness promotes a sense of belonging in the larger community.
Supporting the social emotional development of 9-year-olds is so important, and creating a sense of community and belonging is critical. Through group activities, fostering open communication, practicing empathy, teaching social skills, creating shared experiences, and celebrating individuality, parents and educators can help children develop a strong sense of self, belonging, and community. It takes time, patience and commitment, but the rewards are worth it!
I don’t want to forget to recommend that you read about WHAT ARE SOME EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR TEACHING CONFLICT RESOLUTION SKILLS TO 9-YEAR-OLDS IN MULTICULTURAL SETTINGS? .
Some Statistics
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• According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who feel a sense of community and belonging are more likely to have better academic performance, higher selfesteem, and better social skills.
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• A survey of over 500 9yearolds found that having supportive adults in their lives was the most important factor in feeling a sense of community and belonging.
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• The same survey also found that having positive relationships with peers was the second most important factor in feeling a sense of community and belonging.
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• A study by the National Association for the Education of Young Children found that when educators create an environment where children feel safe, respected, and valued, they are more likely to develop strong socialemotional skills.
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• A study by the American Psychological Association found that when parents provide consistent support and guidance to their children, they are more likely to develop strong socialemotional skills.
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• A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that when parents and educators work together to create an environment where children feel supported and accepted, they are more likely to develop strong socialemotional skills.
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