February 2014 - Grade 2: Personal Space

Dear Family,

During a recent Developmental Guidance lesson, your child listened to the book Personal Space Camp, by Julia Cook. Personal space is the area of space that closely surrounds our bodies. Generally, you can measure your personal space by extending your arms out—the space between your fingertips and body is your personal space. Being respectful of someone’s personal space is a social skill. Individuals who have difficulty showing appropriate social skills may unknowingly invade personal space. Conversely, individuals with social-skill difficulties or sensory issues may be extremely opposed to anyone being in their personal space. It is also important to keep in mind differing cultural ideas about personal space. Some children have difficulty following the rules of personal space. This can present problems in the school setting where children are constantly surrounded by others.  

There are several strategies to help a child learn the rules of personal space. Here are some examples:

Model good body language – Stand at an appropriate distance from your child and let her see you stand at an appropriate distance from others.

Teach social cues for body language  – Explain and demonstrate facial expressions, eye contact, or body movements someone might make if he/she is uncomfortable with you being in his/her personal space. These can include turning your head, backing away, crossing your arms, etc. Have your child identify these cues and practice responding appropriately to them.

Look at pictures  – View pictures of appropriate and inappropriate personal space. Compare the pictures with the child and have him/her label the body language (e.g., “He is too close,” “That kid looks uncomfortable”).

Practice personal space – Have your child stand up and hold out his/her arm to “see” personal space.

Have a discussion about personal space  – Explain what personal space is, why it’s important, and how to  respect the personal space of others.

Give breaks to a child who needs personal space  – Allow a child who has sensory issues with others in his/her space to have breaks from groups during the day.