Children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respect
Early childhood professionals should think about what it means to be a friend and have friends. Children come together from diverse backgrounds, and educators can help them socialise and form long-lasting bonds.
Children may form easy friendships with other like-minded people, but they can also connect and learn from people who are different to them. Educators can help children consider other people's perspectives and experiences.
Learning experiences
- Play games with rules that require groups of children to take turns and cooperate.
- Provide mediation throughout moments of interpersonal conflict. Support children to identify the problem, brainstorm possible solutions, and work towards a resolution.
- Set up a vet clinic for pets. Children can pretend to care for toy animals.
- Invite diverse people to join you for morning tea, like elderly people or someone with a disability, to promote respect for differences. Beforehand, identify any special needs they may have (e.g. accessibility issues or allergies) and discuss how children can make visitors feel welcome.
Explore the EYLF
Explore other areas of Learning Outcome 1, Children have a strong sense of identity.
Explore all the EYLF Learning Outcomes, with links to children's interest topics, on The Interest Forest.