Creating a Sense of Belonging During the Holidays at IWRBR

As the holiday season approaches, I Would Rather Be Reading (IWRBR) amplifies its mission to provide every child with a profound sense of belonging. For many children, the holidays can magnify feelings of isolation and exclusion, especially when their families struggle to meet societal expectations of holiday grandeur. At IWRBR, we believe that belonging is a cornerstone of both emotional and academic growth—a belief that underpins every aspect of our work.

** Images from 2023 Holiday Celebrations

Research shows that fostering a sense of belonging can significantly improve children’s mental health, confidence, and capacity for learning. When children feel included and valued, they are more motivated, happier, and resilient. This sense of connection helps mitigate the emotional toll of loneliness, which can spike during the holidays when many young people face disrupted routines and financial stress within their families.

To address these challenges, IWRBR goes above and beyond with our holiday programming. We organize personalized holiday celebrations, ensuring that each child receives two personally selected and wrapped gifts, an effort fueled by wrapping parties involving our staff and volunteers. These thoughtful details send a powerful message: “You matter, and you belong here.” This inclusivity not only strengthens their sense of community but also alleviates the pressure families might feel to overextend financially during the season.

This commitment extends beyond providing material gifts. Our programs emphasize the creation of safe, welcoming spaces where children can build trusting relationships and develop a sense of stability. By intentionally celebrating the uniqueness of each child and fostering shared experiences, we ensure that every participant feels seen, supported, and cherished.

The impact of this work is profound. A child who feels they belong is more likely to thrive despite external hardships. For many of our students, knowing they are part of a community that celebrates them is the gift that lasts far beyond the holiday season. Together, we are creating not just joyful memories but a foundation of hope and resilience that will guide them into the future.

Let’s continue to work together to ensure that every child experiences the magic of belonging—this holiday season and always.

• IWRBR Team

References

1. Springtide Research Institute. (2023). 4 Ways to Instill Belonging for the Holidays. Retrieved from Springtide Research Institute