"Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives." ~ Brené Brown
It starts with hello
Bear Buddies help create a culture of inclusion that values each individual at Bennett. "Start With Hello! is a program that teaches students to make a difference with their peers in a simple, fun, and impactful way. They take small but powerful actions to promote connectedness and inclusion, and to identify and help lonely students who are showing signs of social isolation."
At Bennett, all of our students are Bear Buddies, kindness ambassadors, and take small, powerful actions throughout the year to keep students from feeling isolated. Bear Buddies:
Be a role model and adhere to the Bear Creed.
Exhibit monthly character traits and weekly manners & adorn the school with posters.
Are friendly and like to make new friends and include others.
Give new students tours of the school & help everyone feel welcomed.
Invite new students to eat lunch with you and play with them at recess.
Monitor the yellow bench at recess and invite kids sitting there to play.
Talk about friendship, kindness, empathy, and other topics during their classroom Morning Meetings.
Bear buddy training videos!
I shared these two videos during morning announcements for all students to see. Please encourage your child(ren) to watch them again and talk about the importance of knowing how to introduce yourself to others and reaching out to say, "Hello".
Bennett brochure
We created a Bennett Brochure for new student guided tours. This brochure is a combination of approximately 10 Bear Buddies' work!