So, What’s the Big Deal About Belonging?
Belonging is currently being addressed in multiple ways throughout Mason Public Schools, as well as in society at large. In her 2022 TED Talk, biotechnologist Lola Adayemi addressed the topic and explained that, as humans, we are all seeking to belong. Research also suggests the sense of belonging impacts one’s self-concept and self-esteem, as well as influences academic achievement.
Recently, I was invited to Sarah Yanez’s fourth grade classroom at Steele Elementary to take part in a lesson focusing on a special type of belonging. This year, she invited all families to come to her classroom and share how they and their fourth-grade students are special. They were encouraged to share unique foods, artifacts, and how they celebrate special holidays and practice certain customs.
During this event, one student, Avery, and her family members were in the classroom to share their story. They are part of the Hmong ethnic group, with ancestors from the mountainous regions of China, where many refugees came to the United States after the Vietnam War.
Avery’s classmates were absolutely spellbound as her family members walked around the room in their stunning attire worn on special occasions, including the upcoming Chinese New Year!
Students were excited to try on the beautiful, handcrafted hats and to examine the intricate embroidery on the dresses rich in symbolic meaning. As students studied the map locating the home of Avery’s ancestors, their curiosity exploded with wonder and questions about the climate, customs, family structure and more. At the conclusion of this learning opportunity, they enjoyed a coconut and tapioca treat drink known as Nab Vam.
It was a joy to observe Avery’s expressions and see how her peers responded. Undoubtedly, she felt extra special and, on this day, revered by her classmates!
Psychologist Geoffrey Cohen writes, “Belonging is a feeling we are part of a larger group that values, respects, and cares for us – and to which we feel we have something to contribute.” (Cohen, 2022). This learning experience in Sarah Yanez’s classroom was a living example of what that looks like.
