We have some new faces in the West Wing. Welcome to Helena Dubrawski and her family Heidi and John and her brothers Kai and Taj who have just moved back to L.A. after living in Palm Springs for a couple of years. Helena just started on Monday, October 7th, and the children are busy setting the tone for Welcoming. In the Communication Center, Teacher Cynthia set up paper, markers, and photos of Helena from her visiting play dates for a small group focus and the welcoming conversations began:
Teacher Cynthia: How do we welcome others? What are some of the things we can say to Helena to make her feel welcome?
Keaton: Hello!
Everly: We can ask her, ‘How are you doing?’
Rondie: Saying hello makes people feel welcome. I think Helena will be a little happy to start NSW.
Rufus: Maybe playing with her and saying ‘hi’ will make her feel happy and welcome.
Uma: Playing together makes you feel welcome. When I started at NSW, I played with Santi in the bikes and that made me feel happy.
Levi: Helena is my best friend. I love her so much. I’m so happy she’s coming to school. I like you, Helena!
Brainstorming ideas and different ways to make Helena feel welcome invites the children to reflect on their first days starting NSW and how now they can take on the role of bringing a welcoming feeling to others.