In this blog post, we will discuss the process of forming close friendships in high school and introduce an engaging no-prep activity for educators. By understanding the steps involved in developing meaningful relationships, students can foster stronger connections with their peers and enhance their social well-being.
Introduction
Forming close friendships is a gradual process that involves spending time with a person or group of people, creating shared memories, and learning more about each other. This process may take months or even years, but it is essential for building strong, lasting relationships. In this post, we will explore four key steps for high school students to develop close friendships: determining who they enjoy being around, making mini plans during school, suggesting plans outside of school, and maintaining communication over time.
No-Prep Activity: Friendship Bingo
This activity is designed to help students get to know their peers and create a foundation for building close friendships. It requires no preparation or materials from the educator and can be easily adapted for both small and large groups.
To begin, have students create a 5×5 grid on a piece of paper. In each square, they should write a statement that could apply to one of their classmates (e.g., “has a pet dog,” “plays a musical instrument,” or “enjoys hiking”). Next, instruct students to walk around the room and find classmates who meet the criteria in their grid squares, asking them to sign the corresponding square. The goal is for students to fill their entire grid, encouraging them to engage in conversations and learn more about their peers.
Once students have completed their grids, gather everyone together for a group discussion. This activity not only promotes social interaction but also serves as a starting point for identifying potential friends based on shared interests and experiences.
Discussion Questions
- What factors do you think are most important when forming close friendships in high school?
- How can mini plans during school help build stronger connections with peers? Can you share a personal example?
- Why is it essential to maintain communication and share experiences as friendships grow?
- How can educators support students in developing close friendships and navigating social challenges in high school?
- What strategies can students use to overcome obstacles or setbacks in their friendships?
Related Skills
In addition to understanding the process of forming close friendships, high school students can benefit from developing a range of related social-emotional skills. These may include active listening, empathy, conflict resolution, and assertive communication. By fostering these abilities, students can navigate the complexities of social interactions and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
Next Steps
If you’re interested in exploring more resources and activities to support your students’ social-emotional learning, we invite you to sign up for free samples of skill-building materials from Everyday Speech. These resources can help you create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment, empowering your students to develop meaningful connections with their peers.
