ISY Learning Story

Belonging – Part 2

You might remember a previous ISY Learning Story titled, Pre-K and KG Build a Sense of Belonging. Our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten teachers, Ms. Ruth and Ms. Vicki, began the year working to build a sense of belonging with the children. Just two months into the school year they have noticed their efforts have been successful. Students are now raising their hand, sharing, asking classmates to play and are helping each other. In addition, children eagerly greet each other when they come to school, looking forward to another day with their peers, and they know when someone is absent and who has returned. All these are signs that a sense of belonging has formed.

To consolidate this sense of belonging the children have been exploring the concept of Identity (an important ISY Interdisciplinary Concept) and what makes them who they are.

The children have explored Identity by identifying what they can do, what they like and don’t like, and what they are good at through a variety of lessons and activities. For example, the teachers have been reading stories that support the concept of Identity. In Kindergarten, children filled out an Identity chart. In Pre-Kindergarten, families have been invited in so the students can show their peers what they like to do with their families.

One family brought their two puppies, and showed how they play with their puppies. Another family came with a guitar and shared some of their favorite songs they like to sing together. The children also created self-portraits where they looked in mirrors and drew what they saw in the mirror. Soon these portraits will be hanging in our hallways for everyone to enjoy.

A feeling of belonging and that their identity is valued creates an important foundation upon which our children can continue to learn throughout their lives. It allows children to engage in learning and approach challenges with confidence. And an understanding and appreciation of the identity of others is important in creating the compassionate global citizens that ISY strives to nurture.