Roots of Empathy by Dr. Phil Barrette
by Alexandra Leek
The Roots of Empathy Program seeks to create confident, caring citizens in the community through a classroom environment. On August 4, 2011, Dr. Phil Barrette presented the Ancaster A.M. Rotary Club with a film further explaining the program.
Families with babies partner with the Roots of Empathy Program, and provide students with the opportunity to learn by observing the child. Families that have volunteered their time come from various cultural backgrounds. This teaches the students about diversity and caring.
Students also develop the ability to identify feelings and give names to those feelings, thus teaching emotional literacy. Furthermore, the program builds community by allowing students to make positive connections.
The Roots of Empathy Program also encourages responsibility. As a result of observing a young baby, ideas of early pregnancy might be delayed. As a result of learning diversity, caring, and empathy, students are also discouraged from criminal activity in the future.
Since implementing the Roots of Empathy Program, most schools have seen a reduction in negative issues such as bullying, racism, and sexism. Schools have also witnessed a decrease in aggression and an increase in pro-social behaviour.