On Wednesday, January 4th, Dr. Michael Thompson spent the day with our Kula Ha`aha`a faculty and staff discussing the social lives of children. He shared his wealth of knowledge and experience that was gained in working with over 700 schools worldwide over the past 30 years. Most importantly, Dr. Thompson impressed upon us the importance of friendship in the social development of children. For example, it is through friendships that children learn how to get along with others.
The next day Dr. Thompson spent an hour with our 4th and 5th graders. The discussion focused on friendship and popularity. The main point for the students was that everybody needs a friend.
Later that evening, Dr. Thompson presented to approximately seventy parents at our second `Ohana Summit. Dr. Thompson opened and closed his ninety-minute presentation with questions from the audience. It was a treat to have their individual questions addresssed by a leading an expert on child development. Dr. Thompson’s main point in all of his talks was that if your child has at least one friend, then he/she will be okay.