In order to continue to grow and develop, especially during the middle school years, students need to feel they are accepted both as an individual and then in the context of their community - students need to know that they matter, that they are supported, and that they can make mistakes and try new things without the fear of being judged or feeling they have failed. Simply put, a safe space creates the conditions for the students to grow as individuals within their community.
“Safe spaces matter because at WHEDco I feel comfortable and it helps my mom definitely. My mom works and when she can put us in the after school it’s important to give her the time to work and it helps me and my siblings. It also gives us the time to do the activities that make me and the other students happy which is important.”
— Ethan Garcia
“Safe spaces are important because it has helped involve my family and both of my parents can trust that I will be happy and safe at the WHEDco afterschool program while also giving them the time to work.”
— Kiana Peprah