CHS Social Worker Traci Blancke sees many kids each day, coming to her with different problems about school, home or if they need some personal help. Blancke tries to have a relationship with each and every one of them, even in a precarious situation. Blancke shares five ways to build relationships with students, adults and everybody in between.

1. “I notice that people sit together in pods at lunch often. The thing is, they are on their phones. Phones are a big problem because we rely a lot on them. Be present with your peers,” Blancke said. According to Sagnet Behavioral Health, phones limit communication, privacy and attention, resulting in weaker friendships.

2. “All you gotta do is talk to someone next to you. That’s it,” Blancke said. “Find something you have in common with them. If you don’t have anything in common with them, find someone else.”

3. “Clubs are big at Community, so joining one is very good for people wanting to be more social,” Blancke said. “Since CHS has so many clubs, there is practically something for everyone. You could learn in math club or act in CET.”

4. “If you are too shy to introduce yourself to someone, you can always ask your forum leader. They know so many people who have many different interests. They are a great resource for everyone at CHS. Counselors are also amazing. It’s in their name. They help a ton,” Blancke said.

5. “Arguably the most important way to build a strong relationship is to actually care about the person in it,” Blancke said. “If you treat them badly, nobody will want to be your friend and high school won’t be fun. If you care about the person, you will have a strong relationship that will last.”

These five tips from Blancke are a great way to start improving old and building new relationships. Thanks to Blancke for giving these pieces of advice.