Author:
The value of empathy is a topic of increasing discussion in social organizations and schools. Compassion is what sets us apart from machines, and even from many other animals. It allows us to connect with other people and their experiences, it allows us to understand them. It is also what makes us compassionate. No wonder, that it is such an integral social experience of schooling and childhood. However, compassion is a skill that can be developed. It is best learned in childhood, like most things. Adults make the best teachers, too.
“The case for embedding compassion in the school curriculum is strong, especially in light of the research indicating that compassion can be cultivated” (Kohler-Evans & Barnes, 2015, p.34). Stronger, more meaningful, and encouraging relationships are shared by those who are compassionate. However, compassion is a part of social and emotional learning (SEL), so it’s more than just an emotional problem.
According to Welford and Langmead (2015), While compassion towards and from others is very important our relationship with ourselves is just as important. Learning being self-compassionate involves promoting ourselves and our efforts when things are going well, but particularly when things are difficult. As educators, I believe we should use our actions to convey this love and compassion to our students so that their world can become a better place.
References
Kohler-Evans, P., & Barnes, C. D. (2015). Compassion: How Do You Teach It?. Journal of Education and Practice, 6(11), 33-36.
Welford, M., & Langmead, K. (2015). Compassion-based initiatives in educational settings. Educational and Child Psychology, 32(1), 71-80.
Absolutely, I firmly believe that incorporating compassion in the educational curriculum is highly beneficial. Not only does it encourage empathy and understanding among kids, but it also generates a happy and supportive learning atmosphere in classroom. When compassion is integrated into school, students learn not only academic subjects but also crucial life skills such as kindness, respect, and emotional intelligence. This can lead to reduced occurrences of bullying, healthier connections among peers, and a greater feeling of belongingness inside the school. Furthermore, teaching compassion can have long-lasting consequences, as children carry these principles with them into adulthood, and contributing to a more compassionate society as a whole.
I totally agree Compassion should be part of the schools educational curriculum because it helps both teachers and students understand and connect with one another . When we’re compassionate, we’re kind and caring, which makes the school a better place for everyone. It’s like when you help a friend who’s feeling sad or include someone who’s left out – that’s compassion in action! Learning about compassion in school teaches us how to be good friends and how to understand different feelings. It’s important because it makes our school a happier and friendlier place to learn. Plus, being compassionate helps us feel good about ourselves and makes others feel good too. So, by adding compassion to our school curriculum, we’re not just learning subjects like math and science, but also how to be kind and caring people, which is super important in life.
I agree that compassion for others and self-compassion are important aspects of developing healthy social interactions. As you stated, these skills can be taught, and it is important to include skills for developing compassion in the curriculum.