Roots of Empathy is an evidence-based classroom program that has shown dramatic effect in reducing levels of aggression among school children by raising social/emotional competence and increasing empathy. The program reaches elementary school children from Kindergarten to grade 8 and runs weekly from October to June for a total of 27 sessions.  At the heart of the program (9 of the 27 sessions) is a neighbourhood infant and parent who visit the classroom every three weeks over the school year.  A trained ROE instructor coaches the students to observe the baby's development and to label the baby's feelings.  In this experiential learning, the baby is the "teacher" which the instructor uses to help children identify and reflect on their own feelings and the feelings of others.  According to Roots of Empathy Founder and President Mary Gordon, "The Roots of Empathy classroom is creating citizens of the world - children who are developing empathic ethics and a sense of social responsibility that takes the position that we all share the same lifeboat.  These are the children who will build a more caring, peaceful and civil society, child by child."

In the Region of Waterloo, the Roots of Empathy program is offered in 17 schools representing over 800 students.  To continue to grow this program, we need your help!

Are you interested in volunteering your time in a local school?  Would you like to work with a family and baby to teach tolerance and acceptance in the classroom?  You could be a Roots of Empathy Instructor!  

OR

Are you a proud parent with a new baby?  Will your baby be 2 to 4 months old in October?  You and your baby could be a Roots of Empathy family!

If you are interested in either of these volunteer positions, contact Sharon Burzotta, Roots of Empathy Coordinator at 519-650-0800 or by email at s.burzotta@ywcacambridge.ca

MARY GORDON, FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF ROOTS OF EMPATHY

IS COMING TO WATELOO REGION

Monday May 3, 2010

Cambridge Newfoundland Club

6:30 to 7:00 Reception

7:00 to 8:00 Presentation

Book signing to follow

Tickets:  $25 per person,   $10 for full time students

To reserve your ticket, contact the YWCA at 519-650-0800

Seating is limited, so register early!!