A PROGRAMME being implemented in an increasing numbers of Limerick primary schools has taken on the task of tackling bullying and helping children to be kinder. And it’s taught by babies.
‘Roots of Empathy’ is a programme run by Barnardos in which a local mum and baby visit primary schools regularly for a whole school year while pupils are guided by a trained leader to interact with the baby and watch it grow, develop, and learn to understand what young children are feeling.
“Babies are great teachers because they have no boundaries. Whatever they’re feeling on that particular day, they bring to the classroom,” Holly Howell, Roots of Empathy project leader for Barnardos told the Limerick Post.
Barnardos provides the programme countrywide and are currently concentrating on getting schools in Limerick on board, with four primary schools already involved and five more signing up for the coming year.
“The children get to know the baby as ‘their’ baby and they have special songs and games they play. The trained leader gets them to focus on what the baby is feeling and how they respond, and to turn that knowledge back on their own lives.
“They watch all the milestones as the baby learns to laugh and do things like roll over and they get really excited by all of it. They are learning to communicate and understand that no matter what race, religion, height, or age you are, the one thing we all have in common are feelings.”
Through the programme, pupils “learn to name feelings and learn that it’s ok to have them. They become emotionally literate,” said Holly.
“This programme originated in Canada and after 25 years it has been shown to have amazing effects in the classroom. Children are less likely to bully or exclude someone if they understand how that person is feeling. It builds kindness and caring in their exchanges and has been show to still be an influence on children eight years on.”
This week, Barnados held a celebration of the tiny teachers at an event in Limerick for parents and babies.
“The babies were given their first teaching certificate and a teddy bear. They love taking part too because they are the centre of attention while they’re in the school.
“At the end of the year, pupils write their hopes for their baby on paper leaves which are put in a baby tree. It’s very moving.”
Barnardos runs training courses for 40 instructors each year and they also welcome involvement for new parents and their babies who are willing to commit.
Anyone can apply to be an instructor and Barnados provide the training and all materials free to their volunteers.
Anyone interested in knowing more or volunteering can email info.roe@barnardos.ie or log on to Barnardos.ie
