Friends: I Have a Choice

Friendship is very important for first graders. So of course I'll hear, "xxx doesn't want to be my friend" and "xxx says I have to be their friend." I spoke to the students about if someone doesn't want to be your friend, then they aren't a good friend for you. I told them, I much rather be friends with someone that wants to be my friend than someone that doesn't want to be my friend. Of course that doesn't really sink in with them, but is a thought they can ponder on. Now on to the "xxx says I have to be their friend." I teach them a powerful phrase they can use, "I have a choice." I tell them that it is their choice whether they want to be friends with someone and that no one should ever tell you you HAVE to be their friend. I know it's deep thinking for kids that are barely six, but it's worth a shot.