Friendships are one of the greatest things about school, and arguably one of the strongest reinforcements of school attendance. As a preschool special education teacher, it is of absolute importance to help encourage friendships through contrived and natural social interactions.
My Pre-K SDC students look forward to outside play time.
We are fortunate enough to have a small space where the children are able to ride bikes, write with sidewalk chalk, and toss a ball around. It isn't much in terms of equipment, but the students have found their own special ways of making the most of what is available to them. Lately, I have noticed that some of my least-social students have enjoyed riding around in a wagon that is pulled by another preschool student. Though still not exactly "interaction," the students at least have found a way to fulfill their joys through a mutual tool -- a step closer to social interaction, and a step closer to forging a friendship.
My Project
Unfortunately, this amazing "friendship-making tool" that is the plastic wagon currently has a broken wheel, and is practically inoperable on the uneven blacktop we use for outside play time. It really was a bittersweet moment when the wheel broke, as it was due to too many students and too much use. I am requesting a wagon and some bikes that encourage sharing by nature. The bikes are designed to carry at least two riders, encouraging students to "find friends," and take turns. The wagon of course will be a wonderful multipurpose tool for the students, carrying friends and equipment to and from secret hiding spots and the like. My students will learn how to share, take turn, and -- most importantly -- make friends with these new toys.
This project is so important to not only myself as a teacher, but for the students and their parents.
One of the biggest reasons why students are referred to our program is their lack of social skills, among other disabilities. Parents are encouraged when they hear their children talk about their "friends at school." I want to do all I can to encourage the development of these friendship-making skills and I am confident that providing these toys made for sharing will help this cause.
More than a third of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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