Nicola Butler and her son Noah are involved in the Roots of Empathy Programme which is currently taking place in third class at St John the Baptist BNS, Cashel.
Roots of Empathy is an evidence-based programme that has shown significant effect in reducing levels of aggression among school children by raising social/emotional competence and increasing empathy.
At the heart of the programme are a neighbourhood baby and parent who visit the classroom every three weeks over the school year. A trained Roots of Empathy Instructor coaches 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. Deirdre O ‘Connor from Spafield FRC is the instructor that comes to third class with baby Noah and his mum.
The Roots of Empathy Instructor also visits before and after each family visit to prepare and reinforce teachings using a specialised lesson plan for each visit. Research results from national and international evaluations of ROE indicate significant reductions in aggression and increases in prosocial behaviours.
The programme was founded in Canada in 1996 by Mary Gordon. She is an internationally recognised educator, award-winning social entrepreneur, author, child advocate and parenting expert, who has created programmes informed by the power of empathy.In 1996, she created the Roots of Empathy programme, which is now offered in different countries around the globe
