SENSE OF BELONGING
Children learn and develop best when their culture, their language, their knowledge and community are affirmed by others in their everyday lives. This indicator looks at the extent to which children and young people feel they belong in their homes, schools and communities.
Developing a sense of belonging is important for children and young people to develop self-confidence and a sense of identity and tūrangawaewae. They need safe spaces and time to explore and establish their identities. It’s important that they’re accepted for who they are without having to fit into narrow and limiting norms.
Knowing that they belong and being secure in their identity helps children relate to others, as well as to the world around them. A strong sense of belonging and identity also helps children to develop respect for others and exercise manaakitanga. When children and young people feel connected, for example to their whakapapa and tūrangawaewae, they are likely to have a stronger sense of identity and confidence.
This indicator relates to the 'accepted, respected and accepted' outcome.
How will we measure this?
- This indicator will be measured using data from the Youth Health and Wellbeing Survey - 'WhatAboutMe?'
- Baseline data from the survey is expected in 2021.
For more information
- For more information about the Youth Health and Wellbeing Survey - 'WhatAboutMe?' visit: https://www.whataboutme.nz/