Getting Along with Others Importance of relationships Skills

Getting Along with Others Importance of relationships Skills needed to develop strong relationships Ways to practice relationship skills

Why are relationships important? • Help you meet social and emotional needs • Relationships with friends and family give you a sense of belonging, or feeling included • When you feel loved and accepted by others, you have a sense of security, or feeling safe and protected

• You can add to your feeling of security by making others feel loved and secure • When you care for others, their needs become as important as your own • Showing others that you care about them makes you feel giving and unselfish

• The approval and recognition of family and friends also build your self -esteem • It is natural to feel happy when you receive a compliment for something you are proud to have done • You can make your family members or friends happy by complimenting them on their accomplishments

Developing Relationship Skills • Communication – a key to good relationships is practicing communication skills – Learning to express your thoughts clearly – Listening to what others say – Try to understand the message from their point of view

• Cooperation – working together for the good of all – Sharing equipment – Doing your share of the work – Taking turns – Helping out

• Building trust – necessary in relationships – Show that you can handle new experiences and responsibilities – Show that you are trustworthy – Be reliable and honest – It is important to keep your word

• Being considerate – or thoughtful – Respect others’ privacy – Be thoughtful about noise – Notice others’ feelings – Show your appreciation – Help people with disabilities

• Strong relationships give you a sense of security, acceptance, and approval. • Practicing relationship skills at home, at school and with friends is worth the effort. • You will be happier, make those around you happier, and feel better about yourself.