HEART VALUES

For the next two weeks, our Heart value focus is ‘relationships’ with an emphasis on friendships - how to make and keep friends.

Making and keeping friends is important for our hauora. Building and maintaining friendships is an essential part of social development, and it is a rewarding experience for tamariki.

Some top tips for making friends may include:

• Be Approachable: Smile, make eye contact, and greet others with a friendly "hello" to show that you are open to making new friends.

• Find common interests: Look for people who share your interests, whether it's a favourite sport, hobby, or a similar taste in books or movies. Shared interests can be great conversation starters.

• Be a good listener: When you talk to others, listen actively. Show interest in what they have to say, ask questions, and respond thoughtfully.

• Be kind and respectful: Treat others the way you want to be treated. Kindness and respect go a long way in building strong friendships.

• Share and take turns: Sharing toys, games, or other items can help foster friendships. Remember to take turns and be fair.

Some top tips for keeping friendships may include:

• Respect Boundaries: Everyone needs personal space and time alone sometimes. Be understanding if your friend needs some space.

• Apologise when needed: If you make a mistake or hurt your friend's feelings, apologise sincerely and try to make amends.

• Resolve conflicts: Conflict can happen in any friendship. When they do, try to talk it out calmly and find a solution that works for both of you.

Remember that friendships are a two-way street. You need to put time and effort into maintaining them.