Undoubtedly, It takes some pupils ample time to settle in their new classes especially at primary and high school level. Some may start lagging behind in class for some time due to delay in adapting to the new class setting with new classmates and new teachers.
Cross-Class interactions refer to the interactions that occur between children in different grades, particularly found in schools amongst younger pupils. This is common amongst pupils in schools and should be encouraged. Some pupils already have older siblings in same school that help them navigate the intricacies of the school academic and social dynamics. This makes them to settle faster and easier with learning. Some call the older pupils school mother or father who plays the role of a guidance in a younger pupils school life.
How important is this cross-class Interaction amongst pupils in a school?
I remember my high school years, I had a friend who was in a class below mine. She needed extra coach in mathematics which I was good at. By putting her through in some difficult topics in mathematics, we got so close and have remained friends up till date. Same happened in my university years, academic connection brought me very close to a lady in a lower class of same department with me. We would discuss lecture topics and go to TDB (Till day Break) together. She is still my friend till date. Evidently, my cross-class interaction with these ladies was mutually beneficial to both of us that it extended beyond school days.
Let’s look at this storyβ¦
In 2012, there was a small primary school in a rural town. The school was comprised of only a few classrooms and a playground, but the teachers and staff worked hard to create a warm and welcoming environment for all of their pupils.
One day, a new primary one pupil named Sarah arrived at the school. Sarah was shy and nervous, and she struggled to make friends with the other children in her class. However, Sarah was fortunate to have a second-grade neighbor named Zita who attended the same school.
One day, as Sarah was walking home from school, Zita ran up to her and said hello. Zita was friendly and outgoing, and she quickly struck up a conversation with Sarah. They talked about their favorite colours, their pets, and their favorite foods. Sarah felt happy and included for the first time since starting school.
Over the next few weeks, Zita continued to seek out Sarah and include her in her activities during recess and lunchtime. She introduced her to her friends and helped her to feel more comfortable around the other pupils. Sarah looked up to Zita as a role model and felt grateful for her kindness and support.
As the school year progressed, Sarah became more confident and started to make friends with her classmates. She also started to look forward to seeing Zita at school and learning from her. Zita continued to mentor Sarah and helped her navigate the social dynamics of the school.
Years later, when Sarah was in high school, she looked back to her elementary school years with fondness. She realized that her friendship with Zita had been a turning point for her, and that the cross-class interactions she had experienced as a young pupil had shaped her into the confident and empathetic person she had become.
Sarah’s story is a good instance of the importance of cross-class interactions between younger pupils and older pupils. The outcome of this cannot be underestimated. These interactions have the power to shape a child’s social and emotional development, and they can create a sense of belonging and community that can last a lifetime.
MY TAKE
The interaction between younger pupils and older pupils has always been an important aspect of education. While it may seem like a small part of a child’s school day, these interactions can have a profound impact on their social, emotional, and academic development.
One of the primary benefits of cross-class interactions for younger pupils is the opportunity to learn from older pupils. Older pupils can act as mentors and role models for younger pupils, demonstrating positive behaviors and setting an example for them to follow. This can be especially valuable for pupils who may not have positive role models at home or in their immediate environment. By interacting with older pupils, younger pupils can learn important social skills, such as how to communicate effectively, how to resolve conflicts, and how to work collaboratively with others.
In addition to that, cross-class interactions can also help younger pupils to develop a sense of belonging and connectedness within the school community. When younger pupils are able to interact with older pupils, they feel more like a part of the school community and are more likely to develop positive relationships with their peers. This sense of belonging is important for children’s emotional well-being and can also have a positive impact on their academic performance.
Another benefit of cross-class interactions for younger pupils is the opportunity to learn from older pupils academic experiences. Older pupils have typically been through the same curriculum and can provide valuable insights into what younger pupils can expect in the coming years. This can help younger pupils to feel more prepared and confident as they progress through their academic journey.
Furthermore, cross-class interactions can also benefit older pupils. By interacting with younger pupils, older pupils can develop important leadership and mentoring skills. They learn to communicate effectively with others, develop empathy and patience, and develop a sense of responsibility towards their younger peers. These skills can be valuable in many areas of life, such as future careers or community involvement.
However, it is very important to consider the character of the older pupil while cross interacting to avoid bad influence. It is advisable for younger pupils to inform their parents or any guardian about who he or she is cross interacting with to ensure that it yields positive results.
In conclusion, cross-class interactions between younger pupils and older pupils are essential for the overall development of both younger and older pupils. These interactions provide them with positive role models, help them develop a sense of belonging within the school community, and offer valuable insights into their academic journey. For the older pupils, it could help them develop their leadership and mentoring skills. Therefore, it is important for schools to facilitate cross-class interactions whenever possible and encourage positive relationships between children of different ages. By doing so, schools can help create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all children.
Amara Ann Unachukwu.
