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Planting Seeds of Empathy and Kindness in Early Childhood

Planting Seeds of Empathy and Kindness in Early Childhood

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 Learn how to create a classroom culture of kindness and empathy with Brooke Lewandowski. Kindness and empathy are built through repetition, patience and connection. Brooke Lewandowski, Lead Teacher and Team Lead at Heartfelt Impressions, joins Rhonda Meyers to talk about the tools and humanity needed to nurture empathy in the classroom. Brooke shares that one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is helping young children learn social-emotional skills. She shares practical tips for helping children feel known and seen, especially when emotions are running high. [00:10:43] “The best way we understand the feelings is when we talk about them.” Tone, language and posture play a big role in communicating empathetically, too. Brooke recommends connecting with kids by meeting them at their eye-level, making eye contact, and using their name. When kids are in conflict, Brooke urges that it's important to stay calm, be curious and help them acknowledge their feelings. [00:20:07] “Noticing how they’re feeling can help to solve problems. . . It can help you get to that solution that you’re working toward.” Brooke reminds listeners that fostering empathy requires modeling, mistakes and humility. Whether you’re an educator navigating a busy classroom or a parent working through big emotions at home, the way you show up matters more than perfection ever will.
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