Ministry of Education, Guyana

Good friends provide us with support from childhood through adulthood. It takes practice to learn how to be a good friend ― practice at being kind, supportive, trustworthy and a good listener. These are skills kids begin to learn at an early age. For a three-year-old, a friend is usually someone in close proximity who is engaging in a similar activity. They can begin to understand the concept of taking turns with toys or playground equipment and responding to the feelings of others. These are building blocks for future friendships!

Several years ago, while substituting in a kindergarten classroom, I forgot to add the “lunch” icon to the daily wall schedule. As the students filed in, two children burst into tears, convinced that lunch was canceled.

Courage involves making good choices in the face of fear or obstacles. It’s another term for bravery. Remember: Bravery doesn’t mean fearlessness. It means we do not let fear hold us back from exploring new opportunities, developing our skills, and doing what is right. For a seven-year-old, courage might look like reaching out to a peer who needs help, presenting in front of other people, or trying a new activity that stretches them.