A Guide to Creating an Inclusive Lunchroom: FOSTERING FRIENDSHIPS ACROSS OUR DIFFERENCES
1. Start with a Smile: A friendly smile and greeting can help make any stu - dent feel seen and welcome. When students come through the lunch line, a simple “How’s your day going?” can make a big difference, especially for those who might feel overlooked or hesitant. 2. Encourage Connection: You’re in a unique position to observe who’s sit- ting with whom. If you notice a student sitting alone frequently, consider gen- tly encouraging others to invite them to their table. Sometimes a little nudge can help break down barriers. 3. Be Mindful of Different Needs: Some students may have sensory sen- sitivities or disabilities that aren’t imme- diately visible. For example, a student wearing noise-canceling headphones might be managing sensory overload. Understanding these differences can help you respond with patience and understanding, creating a more com- fortable environment for everyone. 4. Respect Personal Space: If a stu- dent seems quiet or withdrawn, it may be their way of recharging. Give them the space they need while continuing to offer a friendly presence, ensuring
When you look around the lunchroom, who do you notice students sitting with? Most of the time, they’re with friends or people who look and act like them. But what if the lunchroom could be a place where all students felt en- couraged to connect with someone new—someone who might look, act, or speak a little differently? You, as cafe - teria staff, can play a powerful role in creating an environment that fosters diversity and inclusion. Our school is filled with amazing stu - dents, each with their own unique abilities, strengths, and challenges. Some differences are easy to see, like a student using a cane or wheelchair. Others, like sensory sensitivities or hid - den disabilities, are less visible. These differences may make some students hesitant to engage, but as a food ser- vice provider, you have the opportunity to set an example of kindness and in - clusion in the lunchroom. BUILDING BRIDGES ACROSS DIFFERENCES We all have a role to play in making the cafeteria a welcoming place for every student. Here are some simple but im- pactful ways you can lead by example:
they know they are welcome in the lunchroom without pressure to engage more than they’re comfortable with. TALK TO TINA! I want to hear from you! You likely have questions about how to support students with different needs, and I’m here to help through my “Talk to Tina” column. Whether you’re wondering, “There’s a blind student in my cafete- ria, how can I make sure they feel in - cluded?” or “Why does a student wear noise-canceling headphone’s in the lunch line?”—I’m here to answer those questions. Over the next few months, I’ll be shar- ing tips and ideas to help you bridge the gap connect with greater confi - dence with all the students you serve. Together, we can create a lunchroom that’s welcoming to all students, where each person feels seen, valued, and part of the school community. Thank you for the vital role you play in your students’ lives. Your interactions go a long way in creating an inclusive environment where everyone can be comfortable and thrive. Email me your questions at info@serveddigizine.com. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Tina Laffer, MA, MEd, CVRT | Carroll Center for the Blind, Newton MA Tina Laffer is the Director of Community Engagement and Outreach at the Carroll Center for the Blind in Newton, MA. With a wealth of experience in special education and rehabilitation, Tina is a highly skilled professional dedicated to assisting clients of all ages and stages in their journey. She holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Learning from George Washington University. Additionally, Tina earned a Master’s degree in Vision Rehabilitation Therapy from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Tina’s commitment to excellence is evident through her professional achievements. She is a National Library of Congress UEB Literary Braille Transcriber, as well as a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist from ACVREP.
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