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January 11, 2023 Glenn Manglian
Let’s face reality. Life is full of challenges that can easily let us down or make us feel alone. As adults, we develop coping tools and use support networks when necessary. But how do children learn, build effective tools, and embrace and support each other?
buddy bench
I recently noticed a buddy bench in the South School playground. (I understand that the Foster School was awarded a mini-grant from the Hingham Second Parish Church for a similar bench.)
A school playground can be a lonely place for a child without someone to play with. Children who need a friend to play with (for whatever reason) can sit on the bench at recess. Other students are encouraged to invite them to play with those they see sitting on the bench. What a simple yet powerful opportunity to learn empathy and inclusion and foster a caring environment I guess. A little Google research revealed that the Buddy Bench isn’t just limited to Hingham or the United States. Also known as friendship benches, these playground furniture have been used for some time in different countries.
perspective of two children
I wanted to know more about the South School Buddy Bench. First, I asked my two grandchildren, Jack (2nd grade) and Izzy (Kindergarten), if they knew about the Buddy Bench. “Of course,” Jack replied.
“Everyone does.” Isabelle said, “My ‘work’ last week was to be a ‘playground helper.’ If you see someone with no one to play with, ask them if they want to play. “
South school visit
We had the opportunity to meet South School Principal Mary Eastwood to learn more about the bench’s history and current use. Did. I asked if teachers were teaching children about the purpose of benches. Clearly, children learn from their peers, which creates a positive impression. I visited the playground during break time. No one was sitting on the buddy bench that day, but many children were seen smiling and having fun.
adult lesson today
It reminded me of Robert Fulghum’s best-selling book All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten. As adults, we can learn a lot from children. Friends and even strangers can feel lonely and in need of support. It could be as simple as opening a door, helping someone across the street, or listening with genuine empathy. Keep an eye out for those in need and remember the buddy bench metaphor. Because “everybody deserves a buddy”.
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