Some of the most successful Mix It Up events share a common element: student planners. So this week’s planning tip is to get your students in the Mix!
In elementary schools–especially in the early grades–teacher-led activities are great. But in upper elementary, middle and high school, students are more likely to buy in and participate if their fellow students are in charge. When students take the lead in promoting friendship and inclusivity, other students take notice.
This is especially true when older kids are influencing younger kids; Mix can help make sure that influence is a positive one. Invite students from the upper grades to be models for welcoming, inclusive behavior by having them speak in your classroom, at recess or in assemblies.
A good way to start recruiting students is by reaching out to the Student Council, Diversity Club or Multicultural Club. Organizing the event could even be a class project or assignment. There are so many possibilities!
No matter how you recruit organizers, remember the spirit of Mix It Up. Clubs and organizations are strong assets, but look beyond existing structures, too. Find a handful of students who don’t belong to a club or group, and invite them to participate. Helping with Mix could be a wonderful opportunity for them to develop leadership skills.
Once you have your core group of student organizers, get them to mix it up before they plan the big event for everyone else. The “Me and We” activity—one of our free online resources—is a good place to start.
Mix It Up at Lunch Day is October 25!
Do you have any questions about Mix It Up? We want to answer them. Any ideas or other thoughts? We want to hear them. Contact us on Facebook or Twitter, or browse our free Mix It Up materials.
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