With each visit we talk about what changes has happened since our last visit. Rolling over, starting solids or getting a first tooth for example. Each week there is a topic. This week when we visit we will talk about sleep. How we feel when the baby doesn't sleep, how we can become grumpy to others when that happens and how it makes us feel for the baby that can't seem to sleep. Or what causes them not to sleep. Other topics have been traveling with baby and crying. When we get to the classroom for a visit all the children have their hands washed and have to sit around a green blanket. The blanket is for baby only unless they are invited to come on. When we come onto the carpet all the children stand up and I walk around for each child to greet her. They sing the same Hello song as well as a Goodbye song when we leave. Other then the main topic we discuss each time, the children also ask their own questions and we talk about the predictions they made prior to the visit about what Gabriella can do now.
The program is for the children to learn about the relationship between the parent and baby and how the parent responds to the baby's emotions and how the baby's needs are met. It is meant to make a more caring classroom and to help eliminate bullying while increasing social and emotional understanding between the children. The children in the class are so fascinated with my daughter. I didn't think at the start that they would have such a bond with her if any at all. They get so excited to see her. They'll see her on the playground before school and tell me how much they love her. It's so cute! They make her cards and pictures. At first I wasn't sure about participating in the program, but if by taking Gabriella in once a month helps the kids be more compassionate towards one another it has definitely been worth it.
If you would like to read more about Roots of Empathy click here .
If you have any questions or comments please post below!
Jenn
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