Building & maintaining healthy relationships

November 2024

Do you remember your very first friend? Maybe it was a sibling or a family friend, an across-the-street neighbor, or the first person you met in kindergarten. The memories that our friendships hold can range from the best of our lives to some of the most heartbreaking; in truth, our relationships always teach us something about ourselves. Here at Dunham, from our youngest two-year-old ECC learners to our graduating seniors, relationships are foundational to their growth, development, and overall well-being.

Why Relationships Matter

God designed us to be in relationships with others. In Genesis 2:18, He said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” This truth applies to all of us, including our children. Relationships at school—whether with peers, teachers, or mentors—help shape our children’s character, self-esteem, and spiritual growth. Research shows that children with strong social connections are less likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. According to a study published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence, positive peer relationships are directly linked to higher levels of happiness and lower levels of stress among students.

School: A Hub of Social Interaction

The Dunham School is not just a place for academic learning; it is a community where students interact daily, forming friendships and learning how to navigate social dynamics. These interactions teach them essential life skills such as empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution. Encouraging your child to build strong, healthy relationships is crucial for their personal and spiritual development.

Tips for Parents

• Model Healthy Relationships: Show your children what healthy, loving relationships look like. Demonstrate respect, kindness, and forgiveness in your own interactions. This includes modeling healthy conflict resolution within your family relationships; communicate with healthy language and tone, and attempt to show your children how issues and concerns can be addressed in respectful and healthy ways.
• Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where your child feels safe to talk about their friendships. Ask about their day and listen without judgment.
• Look for Positive Traits: Encourage your children to seek out friends who are kind, honest, and supportive. Help them understand the importance of surrounding themselves with people who uplift them.
• Be Involved: Know who your child’s friends are and take an interest in their social life. 
• Promote Social Skills: Teach your children the importance of empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution. These skills are vital for maintaining healthy relationships.

The Role of Parents in Guiding Relationships

As parents, you play a crucial role in guiding your children toward healthy relationships. By fostering open communication, modeling Christ-like behavior, and encouraging positive interactions, you help your child build a strong foundation for relationships that honor God.

Closing Scripture

Remember Ecclesiastes 4:9-10,“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

Let’s help our children grow not only in knowledge, but also in love and wisdom as they build relationships that will bless them for a lifetime. Together, we can help our students find and nurture the relationships that will lift them up in their walk with Christ.