Plus Ways to Build Positive Relationships in Your School
Teachers and administrators in schools have so much to think about and do. It seems like the to-do list is never ending and almost overwhelming at times. But it is so important to take a beat and to reflect on what is on that to-do list.
When you take a moment to rethink your list, you might find that what is actually important, and what reduces your stress, is missing from that list. And that missing thing is relationships.
Why Relationships Should be Prioritized
It can seem odd to add relationships to a to-do list, but they are key not only to the success of you as a teacher or school staff member, but also to your happiness and more importantly, everything you wish to accomplish with students.
Without strong and trusting relationships, you can’t help your students learn, develop, and be successful in their own right. Plus, relationships are a buffer for both you and your students during times of stress.
The positive impact that good relationships have on our physical and mental health can’t be denied. Without positive relationships, the school year could be an extremely difficult one. So there is no better use of your time than to prioritize relationships.
The Science Behind Bonds
According to Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, people experience a decrease in stress levels when they feel they belong. Dr. Murthy also states that healthy relationships can boost the immune system and improve cardiovascular health (both of which can be negatively impacted by stress).
And when you see a positive impact on your health and well-being, it can improve your life longevity! In fact, a 2010 study found that loneliness can be as damaging as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
This data proves that it is crucial we prioritize relationships with students in school, and that we should take the time to show each and every student, even those who are considered “distant” or “difficult,” that they are safe, cared for, and that they belong.
It’s also important that we not only think about the teacher-student bond, but the relationships between staff members as well. Establishing an environment where staff also feel safe, supported, and a sense of belonging can further improve the relationship environment throughout the school system.
Improving Outcomes for Students
So how can you help foster positive, safe relationships with students and fellow staff at your school? It starts with modeling the type of behavior that fosters those environments and relationships, including kindness, respecting differences, recognizing and responding to needs, as well as encouraging grace during conflict resolution.
Here are a handful of ideas that you can begin to implement to improve the quality of relationships at your school:
- Greet students and staff by name.
- Model kindness, even when someone is disrespectful.
- Show grace and forgiveness when someone makes a mistake.
- Admit when you make a mistake and take time to apologize.
- Allow time for students to talk to one another in appropriate ways during class through brain breaks (and during staff meetings).
- Remembering that relationships take time and care throughout the year!
- Understanding that those who struggle with relationships will need more time and effort on your part.
Key Takeaways
Prioritizing relationships at school with students and staff can foster an environment of belonging. Building safe and positive relationships can improve trust and decrease stress levels. Making relationships a priority can improve brain regulation not only for students, but ourselves, and should be viewed as an important aspect of taking care of ourselves and those around us! Not only will building positive relationships help students succeed and learn, but it will also increase job satisfaction of teachers and staff, which is a win-win for everyone.
