The beginning of the school year is always a chaotic time. This is my 17th beginning of the school year and even though society has changed in many ways, the behaviors and feelings of children remain much the same. As I observe learners in their first few weeks of school, I notice an underlying question of: Where do I belong?
Belonging is vital to our ability to thrive as human beings. In Health & Wellness we have been exploring the science of belonging and asking ourselves what is important to each of us to feel like we belong. Across studios, the learners have shared stories about moments when they have felt lonely and someone made them feel welcome. They have explored ways that they could help others feel a sense of belonging such as inviting others to play or noticing when someone is alone at lunch. We have also explored what behaviors and actions contribute to belonging – what do each of us need to do to ensure that everyone has a place in our community?
Spark studio has been focused on understanding the “feeling” of belonging. What does it feel like to know that someone cares about you, is your friend, and includes you in fun activities? We explored this through a captivating tale of a creature known as Rumple Buttercup. There were many gasps, smiles, oohs, and ahhs, as I read the story and they began to realize that Rumple Buttercup does have people who care about him and want him to belong in their community. The Spark learners then created portraits of the people who make them feel like they belong, that they are loved, and cared for.
Adventure learners engaged in a heated discussion about FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), FOBLO (Fear of Being Left Out), and JOMO (Joy of Missing Out). Many learners found themselves debating whether it is ever possible to reach JOMO… will I ever be okay with my friends not inviting me to something? Will I ever feel confident in myself enough to be okay with missing out? Be secure enough in my sense of belonging that it is okay to watch my friends enjoy something without me? In Adventure, this debate is far from over with most learners admitting to pings of envy when they know their friends are getting together without them.
Discovery studio learners have listened to stories of others where the main characters were unique, different, and didn’t quite feel like they fit in. They made connections about moments when they felt uncomfortable, embarrassed, or left out. Then, they shared about the people in their lives that helped them to feel better, feel included, valued, and cared for. Each learner created a puzzle piece to symbolize why they belong in our community or how others help them to feel like they belong. We are continuing to explore stories of belonging through journaling and reflecting on the community that they are creating every day at The Village School.
Belonging is an essential part of being human and being a part of any community. What steps will you take to connect with others? What steps can you take to reach out to others that you notice are taking a step back? What impact will you make on The Village School, in your community, and in our world?
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