The UN International Day of Friendship on 30 July promotes friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals in order to inspire peace and build bridges between communities.
Education has an important role in fostering friendships at a grassroots level that can transform communities both small and large. We begin by developing respect, understanding and empathy among students in our classrooms and schools and reaching out to others in our local, national and international communities.
The basis for developing friendships in the classroom is the establishment of a supportive classroom environment in which everyone is welcomed and respected. It means that we, as a class, teachers and children, get to know each other and learn to appreciate our similarities and value our differences.
Establish a supportive classroom environment
I have suggested strategies for establishing a supportive classroom environment in previous posts, including:
Establishing a supportive classroom environment from day one
Starting out right — classroom organisation
Preparing the classroom for a successful school year
The posts link to resources to support your work in setting up a welcoming classroom.
Continue reading: Educate for peace through teaching friendship skills – readilearn
Norah Colvin 
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