How To Be a Positive Influence and Support Your Classmates in School?

The school environment plays a pivotal role in a child’s development. While we often emphasize teachers and the educational content, we sometimes overlook the vital social aspects of the classroom setting, particularly interactions with classmates. 

Interestingly, classmates can influence a student’s academic trajectory just as much, if not more, than parents. After all, students spend a significant portion of their day in school. They share many commonalities with their peers, from age and interests to homework and other academic responsibilities. They bond over shared experiences—discussing their thoughts on a new teacher, collaborating on assignments, learning new topics, and even making unique discoveries together. These interactions often lead to close friendships, with many spending time together outside school hours. It’s also common for students to adopt similar behaviors and habits from one another.

How to positively influence and support your classmates?

Fostering a sense of belonging 

Research shows that having a sense of belonging boosts individual performance and well-being. Feeling a part of a community promotes both physical and emotional health and leads to better academic outcomes. It also provides a deeper sense of purpose. Building relationships with classmates can help students feel more connected to their school environment. Interestingly, for some, the bond with teachers can be even more influential than peer relationships. Students who feel understood and backed by their teachers are more likely to positively interact with peers, achieve better grades, and develop a deeper connection to their school.

Strengthening social skills

Classmates play a pivotal role in shaping a student’s social aptitudes. Mastering essential life skills like collaboration and conflict resolution can reduce the risk of future social and emotional issues. When students are surrounded by supportive peers, the educational experience becomes more enriching and uplifting. As students mature, they encounter more complex social situations that test and refine their social capabilities. It’s crucial to recognize when these situations negatively impact well-being and to provide guidance and support for navigating them effectively.

Also Read: 5 Strategies for Teaching Students with ADHD

Encouraging learning

Positive peer relationships can increase a student’s engagement and enthusiasm for learning. Engaged students often excel academically and are less likely to drop out. Collaborative learning with friends can be especially effective. It’s evident that a positive peer influence can significantly boost academic performance. A supportive classmate can be a powerful source of encouragement, inspiration, and motivation.

Reducing stress

The adolescent years can be stressful, but with the right support from classmates, the challenges become more manageable. The backing of a close friend can mitigate the impact of adverse experiences. Additionally, support from both teachers and peers can be instrumental in managing stress and bolstering mental health. Social-emotional learning (SEL) programs, focusing on relationships, can further enhance academic results and psychological well-being.

Smoothing school transitions 

Switching from elementary to high school or moving between classes can be daunting for some students. A familiar and supportive peer can make these transitions less overwhelming. While peer relationships are just one factor in easing transitions, their significance cannot be overlooked. Offering support to a classmate during such times can be instrumental in helping them adjust and thrive in new environments, particularly when a new student joins the school.

Also Read: Assessment Overhaul: How Private Schools are Changing the Game

Strategies to make a positive influence and support classmates

• Adopt the Buddy System: Commit to being there for a friend in need. If someone seeks help or if you sense they need it, step in promptly.
• Form Inclusive Study Groups: The stress of exams can make some students feel isolated. Welcome those who seem left out during study sessions.
• Share Academic Resources: Distribute calendars with due dates, lab notes, and lecture summaries.
• Create a Performance Pact: Collaborate with a group of students to optimize learning experiences. By working as a team, you can distribute tasks and lighten the collective workload.
• Be Empathetic: If a classmate seems anxious or distressed, initiate a conversation. If they need further support, guide them to faculty, counselors, or suggest they talk to their parents.
• Embrace Diversity: Understand that students come from diverse backgrounds with varying perspectives. Value these differences and learn from the unique viewpoints they offer.
• Be an Active Listener: When a classmate seems overwhelmed, lend a listening ear. Allow them to express themselves fully, showing understanding through gestures like nodding or leaning in.
• Expand Your Social Circle: Don’t limit yourself to a specific group. Befriend a diverse range of classmates.
• Assist Struggling Classmates: Help those who find certain topics challenging. This not only aids their understanding but also enhances the overall atmosphere of the classroom.

Seize every opportunity to encourage your classmates and acknowledge their skills and achievements. Offering positive reinforcement and support can significantly contribute to their overall development.

What’s a positive classroom environment?

A positive classroom space is one in which students feel secure, supported, and motivated to study and express themselves. It’s a place where mutual respect among students and between students and teachers is present. In such an environment, students are engaged in their learning, collaborate with their peers, and feel inspired to succeed. Teachers foster positivity by way of presenting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and celebrating students’ achievements. Ultimately, a positive classroom environment enhances student learning and well-being.

Conclusion

Being a positive influence and supporting classmates is essential for creating a supportive school environment. By showing kindness, offering assistance, and promoting inclusivity, students can foster unity among their peers. Encouraging classmates can boost their confidence and motivation to succeed academically and socially. Building strong relationships with classmates enhances the overall school experience and cultivates essential life skills such as empathy, teamwork, and communication. Ultimately, every student plays a vital role in shaping a positive and respectful school community.

FAQs

1. How can I be a good student and a good classmate?

To excel as a student and classmate, focus on active listening during class, completing tasks promptly, and offering assistance to peers when possible.

2. How have you been a positive influence in the school as a teacher?

As a teacher, you contribute positively to the school environment by fostering encouragement among students, providing consistent support, and setting a strong example through your conduct.

3. How can teachers promote positive behavior in the classroom?

Teachers can cultivate positive behavior in the classroom by establishing clear guidelines, acknowledging and reinforcing good conduct, and addressing any disruptions with patience and fairness. Teachers also need guidance and training to enhance student learning and foster holistic development. Varthana offers valuable support for school leaders aiming to enhance teaching practices and elevate their schools. Take action now to drive your school’s advancement with Varthana’s help!

4. How do you build a good relationship with your classmates?

Building rapport with classmates involves displaying friendliness, showing genuine interest in their perspectives, and demonstrating a willingness to collaborate and support one another.

5. How should we behave with our classmates?

Interact with your classmates respectfully, attentively listen to their viewpoints, refrain from engaging in negative behaviors like gossip or bullying, and actively participate in group activities to foster a harmonious classroom atmosphere.