The Role of Healthy Learning

Sanford Harmony recognizes that promoting well-being and creating a welcoming environment requires intentional strategies. Our Harmony resources play a pivotal role in strengthening young people’s sense of belonging and engagement. l. Integrating healthy learning principles into daily lessons and activities empowers youth to navigate their emotions, build strong relationships, and contribute to a positive, connected community.

Addressing Chronic Absenteeism Through Connection

When young people feel safe and supported, they are more likely to actively engage in learning and participation in opportunities. That’s why Harmony offers resources, such as Quick Connection Cards, to promote healthy relationships among peers and caring adults. By strengthening relationships and creating a sense of belonging, these resources encourage meaningful participation and support positive developmental outcomes.

Creating a Sense of Belonging in School

The well-being of youth is at the forefront of our mission. Healthy learning activities, such as Mindful Minute or Relaxation Station, teach youth vital skills for managing emotions and resolving conflicts peacefully. This proactive approach can not only diminish instances of bullying but also equip young people with tools to advocate for themselves and others.

Quick Insights from Harmony EAG Advisors

We asked our Harmony Educator Advisor Group (EAG) to share what strategies and resources they use to support thriving healthy classroom environments and how they can be proactive when it comes to addressing bullying in the classroom.

Q: October is National Bullying Prevention Month. What can educators do to prevent bullying from becoming an issue in their schools? How can they keep students excited about coming to school to learn every day?

A: By incorporating relationship skills in every lesson and activity, we can alleviate many tensions that can occur in the classroom between students. Open communication and fostering a team environment allows kids to connect!   

— Jennifer Wienke, Program Development Coordinator, Fairbanks, Alaska

Q: What strategies do you use to keep the sense of community strong and minimize bullying at your school?

A: We use Quick Connection Cards to continue to build community. Our administrator includes anti-bullying messages during morning announcements. We also have Buddy Readers with the middle schoolers reading to K–2nd students to enhance the family community feel where we all take care of each other.  

— Josie McClain, 2nd Grade Teacher, Gila Bend, Arizona

Q: What strategies do you use to keep the sense of community strong and minimize bullying at your school?

A: Preventing bullying involves creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. At our school, we establish clear behavior expectations and emphasize kindness through daily interactions and classroom discussions. Harmony lessons help students manage emotions and communicate effectively. Building strong relationships allows me to understand their needs and provide support.

— Allison Robb, Dean of Academics, Tucson, Arizona

Q: What strategies do you use to keep the sense of community strong and minimize bullying at your school?

A: In 5th grade, I work with my students to develop leadership skills and teach them how to stand up for others without becoming bullies. I love using the Battle the Bullybot in the Harmony Game Room App, which helps students develop the language necessary for teamwork and communication. 

— Connie Michael, 5th Grade Teacher, Billings, Montana

3 Steps to Address Bullying

Harmony is always on a mission to foster an inclusive school environment where all young people feel valued and connected. With Harmony resources youth serving professionals can foster belonging, reduce bullying, and support the well-being of young people. Here are three ways to do it:

1. Incorporate Relationship Skills in Classrooms:  A 2022 analysis of the Harmony Curriculum (Third Edition) found that the program promoted prosocial behaviors (88% effective or very effective), positive communication skills (93% effective or very effective), emotional and behavior management (86% effective or very effective and solves problems that arise in the classroom (92% effective or very effective) (Sanford Harmony).
2. Provide Ongoing Professional Development: Harmony offers the Harmony Leader Certificate and the Harmony Teacher Certificate. Both certificates provide the key structures and components to support healthy, thriving learning environments. Participants can also earn Continuing Education Units, and use them toward an advanced degree at National University. 
3. Strengthen Parent-School Bonds:A strong sense of belonging extends beyond the classroom or program setting. Organizations can use Harmony resources to create meaningful opportunities for families and caregivers to connect, such as family engagement events, Harmony Meet Ups, or gratitude-focused activities. These experiences help strengthen relationships among youth, families, and adults, creating a more connected and supportive community.
4.  Additional resources for parents are shared in this recent article.

Article originally published 10/09/2024 updated 10/15/2026

Citations:

Dynamic Influence. (n.d.). Elementary school bullying prevention assemblies. Dynamic Influence. https://dynamicinfluence.com/elementary-school-bullying-prevention-assemblies/

Dynamic Influence. (n.d.). High school bullying prevention assemblies. Dynamic Influence. https://dynamicinfluence.com/high-school-bullying-prevention-assemblies/

Dynamic Influence. (n.d.). Middle school bullying prevention assemblies. Dynamic Influence. https://dynamicinfluence.com/middle-school-bullying-prevention-assemblies/

Sanford Harmony. (2022). A case study of Harmony Third Edition Across Four Districts. Retrieved from https://www.sanfordharmony.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Redesign_11_23_Harmony-Third-Ed-Case-Study_Chapter-1_Getting-Started-with-Harmony-1.pdf