UGLI Monthly Resources
JANUARY
Friendship & Healthy Relationships
SUGGESTED
ACTIVITIES
SCHOOL-WIDE
CAMPAIGN
PARENT
CONNECTION
SPOTLIGHT
FOCUS
GOALS
REFLECTION
QUESTIONS
QUICK TIP
FOCUS
Building healthy friendships, respectful communication, and positive relationships that strengthen school culture.
Why This Matters
The new year is a great time to reconnect, strengthen relationships, and set positive intentions. Students learn that healthy friendships are built on kindness, trust, respect, and communication—and that everyone has a role in creating positive relationships at school.
GOALS
By the end of the month, students should:
Identify the qualities of healthy friendships.
Practice respectful communication.
Strengthen connections with peers.
Recognize how kindness strengthens relationships.
SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES
Elementary
Friendship bracelet exchange
Kindness Wall with positive messages
Friendship bingo
Read-aloud about being a good friend
Middle School
Friendship scenarios and discussions
Red Flags vs. Green Flags activity
Kindness Wall
Peer appreciation notes
High School
Healthy relationship discussion
Communication workshop
Student panel on friendship
Mentor younger students
SCHOOL-WIDE CAMPAIGN
Kindness Wall
Friendship Week
"Sit With Someone New" Challenge
Peer Appreciation Campaign
PARENT CONNECTION
Encourage families to talk about the qualities of a healthy friendship and discuss ways to handle disagreements respectfully.
SPOTLIGHT FROM UGLI SCHOOLS
Friendship lunch groups
Kindness calendars
Positive message bulletin boards
"Secret Friend" kindness challenge
Student appreciation postcards
QUICK TIP
Healthy friendships don't happen by accident. Give students opportunities to practice kindness, communication, and inclusion every day.
Looking Ahead
February provides an opportunity to celebrate individuality and build confidence. Invite students to brainstorm ways they can recognize one another's strengths and help every student feel seen, valued, and appreciated.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
What makes someone a good friend?
How can we help everyone feel included?
What is one way you strengthened a friendship this month?