Activity: “Welcoming the New Kid”

Desired Outcome: I am aware of how friendships are formed and that likes, dislikes, special qualities, and needs can influence relationships. I know that being the new kid can be scary, and I know what I can do to help someone who is new.

Curriculum Area: Health and Wellbeing

Curriculum Level: Early Level (Nursery to P1)

Introduction: 1. Begin by discussing with the children the feeling of being new or starting something new, such as a new school, a new class, or a new activity. 2. Ask the children if they have ever felt scared or nervous when they were new to something. Encourage them to share their experiences.

Activity: 1. Explain to the children that today, they will learn about how to make someone feel welcome and comfortable when they are new. 2. Show the children pictures of different emotions (happy, sad, scared, etc.) and ask them to identify the emotions they see. 3. Discuss with the children how they think a new kid might feel on their first day at school or in a new class. Encourage empathy and understanding. 4. Brainstorm ideas as a group on what they can do to help someone who is new feel welcome and included. Write down their ideas on a large piece of paper or a whiteboard. 5. Divide the children into pairs or small groups and provide them with drawing materials. 6. Instruct each group to draw a picture of a new kid and their classmates doing something kind or helpful to make the new kid feel welcome. 7. After the groups have finished their drawings, ask each group to present their picture to the class and explain what they drew and why it would help the new kid feel welcome. 8. Display the drawings in the classroom as a reminder of the importance of welcoming and including others.

Conclusion: 1. Recap the main points discussed during the activity, emphasizing the importance of being kind and helpful to new kids. 2. Ask the children how they think they would feel if they were the new kid and their classmates did the things they drew in their pictures. 3. Encourage the children to put their ideas into action and be welcoming and inclusive towards new kids they may encounter in the future.

Extension: 1. Encourage the children to share their experiences of welcoming new kids in the class during circle time or group discussions. 2. Read books or stories that highlight the theme of friendship and welcoming new friends. 3. Role-play scenarios where children can practice welcoming new kids and responding to their needs and feelings.