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Relationship Building

“We need each other. All of us. We need each other.” Maya Angelou

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Agreements

Speak from the heart
Listen from the heart
Respect the talking piece
Say just enough

Opening Circle

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Community Builder

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Relationship building is…..

being able to make and keep friends, work well with others, and show kindness and respect

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Developmental Characteristics

TK-2

Play cooperatively, share and take turns, use words to express needs, and begin to include others in play. Can identify friends and show simple acts of kindness.

3-5

Form deeper friendships based on shared interests and trust. Use communication skills to solve conflicts and practice inclusion. Begin to navigate peer pressure and loyalty.

6-8

Maintain multiple friendships with empathy and respect. Understand and practice healthy boundaries. Collaborate effectively in groups and appreciate diverse perspectives.

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Teaching Strategies

Model and name respectful communication and listening skills.

Use partner or group activities that build teamwork and trust.

Create daily connection routines like greetings or closing circles.

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SEL Enrichment

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Learning Summary

Relationship building is the ability to make and maintain friendships, work well with others, and show kindness and respect.

Relationship skills are developmental, beginning with cooperative play and sharing in TK–2 and growing into trust, healthy boundaries, and collaboration in middle school.

Strong relationships are built through intentional modeling of respectful communication, listening skills, and daily connection routines.

Partner activities, reflection questions, and consistent community practices help students strengthen empathy, repair harm, and build trust over time.

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