We will explore the topics of..

1. Why is exclusion so hurtful?
2. Why do kids do it?
3. What can we do about it? 

Belonging & Orientation. 

We find ourselves via social interaction with other.  To be excluded is to fall into disorientation a loss of sense of a ourselves and a “sense of place”

The toxic effects of exclusion are accumulated over time.

Under/low on the radar

Normalizing.  It is very easy to normalize exclusion until it is so toxic that it becomes dangerous or even tragic.

Why do kids exclude?

Seeking control in an out of control world

Looking for small groups in a world that booms and buzzes

Looking for predictability

Solutions that Orient: Pathways to Inclusion

-  How to lessen the sensory overwhelm and increase form and predictability in stressful situation

-  Getting control back in the school playground and during transitions

Previewing and Review potential exclusion situations

-  The Do-ability Zone

Start with what is doable and build out

Small controlled semi-formal situations that kids enjoy and  ”get”

-  Our attitude counts.

Valuing the quirk of the excluded child often and publicly

-  Accountability without blame

How many times have you heard kids say…“But I was just joking around!”

Holding those who exclude accountable without blaming and shaming them

Helping children know when they have crossed the line

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“A healthy social life is found only, when in the mirror of each soul the whole community finds its reflection,
and when in the whole community the virtue of each one is living.” Rudolf Steiner

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