We are one of 29 SELB schools in the taking part in the award winning programme Roots of Empathy. The programme was developed in Canada and is funded in Southern Area by the Public Health Agency as part of their commitment to give every child the best possible start in life.
ROOTS OF EMPATHY PROGRAMME AT ST. JARLATH’S P.S. BLACKWATERTOWN
WELCOMES CANADIAN VISITOR Kathy Alves ROE International Mentor Manager and Kate Proctor first Southern Trust ROE mentor
Baby Roan visits the school every three weeks between October and May with his Mum Lyndsey and the programme will allow the pupils to see him grow and develop. Roan is the “teacher” and will support our Primary 2 pupils identify and reflect on their own feelings and the feelings of others – empathy. Maureen Mc Sorley is the specially trained Instructor in the classroom and she works alongside the teacher and supports the pupils to observe the baby’s development. They will learn about how the human brain develops and how personality and experience makes everyone unique - “Love grows Brains” Ref Mary Gordon ROE Founder. They also learn about what is involved in caring for a baby, why babies cry, the importance of sleep, that everyone has feelings, the importance of verbal and non- verbal communication, and how to keep themselves safe. The art work and singing involved supports the pupils to reflect on their own thoughts and feelings and empowers them to apply the learning to everyday life. The resources for the programme include a wonderful range of age appropriate books which brings the learning to life and enhances the experience.
Our Primary 2 class will enjoy and benefit from every minute of the programme and will always see baby Roan as “their” baby. It will help the pupils be more accepting of themselves and of each other and is a great way to learn about life. The class will make memories and a book of wishes and photographs for baby Roan.
Our thanks to Mum Lyndsey Hassan and our youngest teacher Roan for sharing their precious time with our Primary 2 class.
