How can teachers best support students struggling with peer interactions?

Facilitating group activities to build teamwork is an effective way for teachers to support students who struggle with peer interactions. Group activities create opportunities for students to collaborate, communicate, and develop social skills in a structured environment. By participating in group work, students learn to navigate social dynamics, share responsibilities, and engage with their peers, which can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety that may accompany challenging social interactions.

When teachers intentionally design group tasks that promote inclusivity and celebrate each student's contributions, they help create a supportive atmosphere where all students can thrive. This approach allows struggling students to observe positive interactions, practice communication skills, and receive feedback from their peers in a naturalistic setting. Additionally, such experiences can lead to increased self-confidence and improved relationships as students learn to work together toward common goals.

In contrast, encouraging isolation or reducing participation in group work does not address the underlying issues and may exacerbate feelings of alienation. Exempting students from peer collaboration altogether removes valuable learning opportunities and can reinforce the idea that they cannot engage with their peers. Therefore, facilitating group activities is not only beneficial for the students involved but can also foster a more inclusive and collaborative classroom environment for all.