In a heartwarming initiative, a school in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, has set up a ‘Friendship Bench’ to support children in making new friends during recess. The bench serves as a welcoming space for kids who may feel shy or uncertain about approaching others to join in playtime activities.
Parents often worry about their children feeling lonely and excluded at school, and this innovative idea aims to ease those concerns. The Friendship Bench is designed for any child who needs companionship; if they find themselves without playmates, they can simply sit on the bench, signaling their desire for someone to come and join them.
Seven-year-old Lily Thompson shared her experience, saying, “If you can’t find your friends, you just sit on the bench, and someone will come over.” This simple act has proven effective; Lily noted that it typically takes just a minute for someone to notice and invite her to join in the fun. Another student expressed, “Since the bench was installed, I’ve seen a lot more kids playing together instead of wandering around alone.”
The beauty of the Friendship Bench lies in its ability to communicate a need for connection without requiring children to explicitly ask for help. Many kids, just like adults, can become distracted and may not realize when a classmate is feeling left out. A quiet child, in particular, might struggle to voice their desire to play. The bench acts as a gentle reminder to look out for those who might be feeling lonely.
This initiative is especially valuable in a world where children often face challenges in social interactions. Acknowledging loneliness can be tough for anyone, but for kids, it can be even more daunting. The Friendship Bench empowers them to express their need for connection without uttering a word, allowing their peers to step in and extend a hand.
For parents, sending their children off to school can be nerve-wracking, especially when it comes to ensuring they have friends to play with. While it’s unrealistic to manage their social lives entirely, knowing that there are supportive measures in place, like the Friendship Bench, can reassure parents.
Implementing a Friendship Bench is a simple yet impactful way for schools to foster a culture of inclusion and kindness among students. It’s hoped that more schools will take inspiration from this initiative and create similar spaces for children to connect.
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In summary, the Friendship Bench is a fantastic idea that not only helps kids feel included but also encourages empathy and kindness among peers. By promoting understanding and support, schools can help build a more welcoming environment for all students.