The power of peers

Recently I was witness to the power of peers. So often we hear about peer pressure and the bad effects it can have. We hear about bullying in school, people being bullied or picked on because they are different. Well there are times that our peers can influence us or support us in doing something we didn't think we could. Whether it is children cheering on a playmate, or applauding when a classmate receives an award or even when we get that smile or a simple you can do it. As a parent of a child with a learning disability often times it was the cheering on of a classmate or teacher that helped my son over that hurdle. It was someone other than a family member that made all the difference. See, sometimes I think that he expected us to cheer him on, but when it was a classmate, or teacher or friend that did, well that made all the difference! Children helping children. Children leading by example and telling one who can't, "just do it like this" or "Here, I will show you". Often times I have seen children step up and help a classmate who needs that little bit extra. When children with special needs are included it is a learning experience for everybody. They learn that everybody is unique in some way. They learn that the things that make us different are the things that make us all special.They learn empathy and compassion. They learn to accept each other and when we can do that at a young age the difference that can make as adults just might make the world a better place.