Good Afternoon!

In the early childhood setting, transitions occur. At the start of each school year, friends leave and new children come. While the turnover rate at preschools vary, children are flexible and anxious to make new friends. I found an article that articulates the building of friends in this type of setting fairly well.

“Often the preschool years mark a child’s introduction to the world of peers and peer relationships. Research supports the notion that children benefit in many ways from positive peer interactions. In early childhood programs, friendships foster a sense of connection and security and build self-esteem and self-confidence, helping young children adapt more readily to the preschool setting (Dunn 2004; Ladd 2009). (Manaster 2012; Jobe 2012).

“Children thrive in inclusive settings where each child is an important part of the community. When differences are celebrated and similarities discovered, children learn to value themselves, appreciate their peers, and develop meaningful and significant relationships with one another.” (Manaster 2012, Jobe 2012)

While the article is a little on the long side, here’s the link to it (it has some interesting thoughts and information).

Link to article: https://www.naeyc.org/yc/files/yc/file/201211/Manaster.pdf

Here are a few pictures from throughout our day, showing a few of the many relationships that are fostered here at Wee Friends.

Breakfast– Chex and PPC peaches.

Lunch– Refried bean and shredded cheese quesadillas, PPC strawberries/oranges, and cauliflower.

PM snack– Whole wheat bagels with cream cheese.

Wee Sprouts– Cauliflower.

Have a terrific night!

-Mindy

Link to pictures: WF 7/19