SPROUTS:
Growing Together: Making and Being Real Friends

This class focuses on navigating the complexities of friendships during middle school. Through engaging activities and practical guidance, our Sprouts will learn to build, maintain, and strengthen their social connections.

Course Highlights:

Understanding Friendship Dynamics:

• Discussing the qualities of healthy friendships and how to foster positive relationships.

Effective Communication:

• Learning key communication skills such as active listening, clear expression, and empathetic responses.

• Practicing these skills through role-playing and group discussions to enhance social interactions.

Building and Maintaining Friendships:

• Identifying strategies for making new friends and maintaining existing relationships.

• Exploring ways to deepen connections and strengthen bonds with peers.

Handling Peer Pressure:

• Discussing the concept of peer pressure and its impact on friendships.

• Learning techniques to handle peer pressure confidently and make decisions that align with personal values.

Conflict Resolution:

• Understanding common sources of conflict in friendships and how to address them constructively.

• Learning conflict resolution strategies and practicing them through role-playing scenarios.

Balancing Friendships and Personal Time:

• Exploring how to balance social activities with personal time and responsibilities.

• Discussing the importance of setting boundaries and managing time effectively to maintain healthy relationships.

Empathy and Support:

• Understanding the role of empathy in building strong friendships.

• Engaging in activities that promote supporting friends through challenges and celebrating their successes.

Inclusivity and Respect:

• Learning about inclusivity and how to respect diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

• Discussing ways to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all friends.

Fun Social Activities:

• Participating in group activities, team-building exercises, and creative projects that foster friendship and collaboration.

• Exploring shared interests and hobbies to build deeper connections with peers.

Self-Reflection and Growth:

• Keeping a friendship journal to reflect on experiences, personal growth, and relationship dynamics.

• Using guided prompts to evaluate friendships, set goals for improvement, and celebrate positive interactions.

Building Confidence in Social Situations:

• Developing self-confidence in social settings through practice and positive reinforcement.

• Learning techniques for initiating conversations, joining groups, and expressing oneself effectively.

Celebrating Friendships:

• Recognizing and celebrating the positive aspects of friendships and the joy of being part of a supportive community.

• Engaging in activities that honor and appreciate the value of friends.

By the end of this course, our Sprouts will have gained valuable skills and insights into navigating friendships in middle school, helping them build lasting and meaningful connections. "Growing Together" is a journey towards understanding, supporting, and thriving in the world of friendships.