Remote learning, isolation, and social distancing were all terms used over the last few years to describe a very detrimental way of learning. Students and staff worked alone as much as possible in order to keep everyone healthy. This experience has left our school community as a whole in a heartbreaking state. Many students have had increased feelings of loneliness, depression, and a real lack of purpose and belonging which was leading to problems with concentration, motivation, and engagement. The negative impacts on academic learning and overall well-being, and the need for opportunities for social interactions were highly evident, so at Winnipegosis Elementary School (WES) we have been working hard to put the WE back in WES.
How do we solve this problem? With healthy food and by starting social clubs, of course! Beginning the day with our amazing breakfast program, students not only get to fill their bellies and feed their minds, they also get to have some time to enjoy a meal and conversation with their peers. This program has been increasing in success as students and community members have been volunteering to make breakfast, clean up, and bring in donations of food and supplies.
Many staff and students have begun a number of social clubs to provide these social interactions on a daily basis. During lunch hour, recess, and even after school, students in Grades 2-8 can participate in clubs. Clubs are not mandatory, and students have the choice to participate. Many students come and go between the different clubs based on their interests and the weather outside.
Our very first and most successful club is the Art Club. The Art Club was started by student, Rori Beaton, and our community support worker, Lil Milcharek, last year. This club provides students the opportunity to develop their creativity and artistic skills, as well as their problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and self-regulation skills. Art Club allows students to express themselves and explore their emotions through creative and supportive outlets. Students have been observed building their self-esteem and making new friends and connections.
Students also can participate in Games Club, Glee Club, Reading Club, and Student Voice Club. Games Club provides students the opportunity to play board games. Glee Club provides students with the opportunity to use their vocal cords and prepare for performances around our community. Reading Club gives students the opportunity to develop their love for reading and share with their peers what they are reading about. Lastly, Student Voice Club gives students the opportunity to express their feelings, bring up issues they are observing in our school, and plan activities and events for our school. Students have also expressed interest in Drama Club, Lego Club, gardening, and intramurals, which we hope to start soon.
Social interaction is incredibly important for children as it helps them to develop their communication skills, emotional intelligences, and sense of self. Social interaction also helps children to form and maintain relationships, which can have a positive impact on their mental health and overall well-being. Social clubs have provided these social interaction opportunities and other benefits for our students. They have helped students to develop their social skills, make new friends, and feel more confident and self-assured. As one student described, “The Student Voice Club provides me with a sense of belonging and creates community.” This has been especially important for children who may feel isolated or who are struggling to make new friends. Participation in social clubs can also help children to learn new skills, explore their interests, and try new activities, which can broaden their horizons and foster personal growth. Social clubs have provided a safe and supervised environment for children to spend their time, which has minimized the number of lunchtime and recess incidents. Additionally, children who have strong social skills tend to do better academically and professionally later in life. Therefore, it is important to provide social opportunities for students.
Overall, our breakfast program and social clubs have become a valuable resource for the children to develop their social skills and make meaningful connections with others. We look forward to developing stronger community connections and continuing to build these social opportunities for our students.