Name 3 acquaintances in your life.
Neighbors, other MMS students, friends' siblings
Are these two people acquaintances or strangers?
Acquaintances talk about general things, small talk.
Who is a trusted adult in your life? How you can tell?
Parent, older sibling, teacher, Ms. Raschko, police officer
True or False: I have to ask first before I join a group.
True. Ask first.
A stranger asked you a question. What do you do next?
Walk away, do not talk to them, tell a trusted adult in your Circle of Support.
How many friends do you want? Is it okay to have a lot of friends or just a few?
Yes, you can have any number of friends. People are different.
Michael is upset. He asked politely to join a group at lunch, but the other people said, No. What can Michael do to to calm down?
Talk to a friend or family member. Reach out to a friend. Exercise. Deep breathing. Try again with another group when he feels better.
Is it okay to share personal information with your parents, teachers, and doctors?
Yes, parents and community helpers need your personal information to help you.
Do all your friends stay in your life forever?
No, some friends just stay in our lives for a short time. You can make new friends when as you grow and change.
Where in Albany do we see many strangers?
grocery store, post office, restaurants, etc.
Michael wants to join a social group. Did he ask appropriately?
Yes, Michael asked very politely. He paused and then asked when it was quiet.
Is a school friend DIFFERENT from or SAME as a childhood friend?
Different. Childhood friends are likely closer to your family. You only see school friends at school.
Do all friends hug each other?
No, some friends do not touch. Some friends will high five and wave and talk from a distance only.
You do NOT know this person. He is being friendly and offers you a ride home. What do you do?
Do NOT get in the car with a stranger. Walk away. Tell a trusted adult in your Circle of Support.
Is it healthy to hug your acquaintances? (Neighbors, other MMS students, siblings)
No, acquaintances usually do not share physical contact.
Is this a HEALTHY or UNHEALTHY relationship?
Unhealthy. Do not spend time with people who hurt your feelings.
Do I share my online passwords with my friends?
No, only share passwords with parents or very trusted adults. Friends do not need your password.
Does everybody have all 5 relationships? (For example, does everybody have a Romantic Relationship/Close Friend relationship?)
No, some people have fewer relationships. Some people have more.
Name 2 family members who are IMMEDIATE and 2 who are EXTENDED.
Immediate: Mom/Dad, Brother/Sister - Extended: Aunt/Uncle/Cousin/Grandparents
Is it OK to give a small smile and nod while we walk past strangers on the sidewalk?
Yes, a small nod and smile is okay. Keep your distance and do not engage in conversation. It's not safe. You do not know this person.
Acquaintance? Friend? Stranger?
Friend
You feel sad about school. You do not like to go. Can you talk to your family members about this?
Yes, this is a personal topic that you can share with your families. Since it's about school, you can also talk to your teacher about it.