Neighbor Shelly Bates sent us a plea from Beacon Hill International School. Are you the parent of a new baby? Then read on for a way to help the kids at BHIS by being part of the Roots of Empathy program:

Are you a proud parent with a new baby?

Will your baby be 2-4 months old in October?

You and your baby could be a “Roots of Empathy Family”!

“Roots of Empathy” is a program that we are using for the 3rd year at BHIS. This year it will be in the 3rd grade.

The program’s aim is to increase a child’s ability to understand another person’s feelings (increasing empathy). This helps children learn to care and respect each other and contributes to less bullying and aggression.

What does a Roots of Empathy Family do?

• A mother and/or father visits a classroom about 30-40 minutes each month until June (9 times).
• The program helps children to learn about a baby’s needs and how babies develop. It lets children observe the loving relationship between a parent and baby.
• Roots of Empathy families are volunteers.
• The instructor will explain to parents what the class will be talking about each month and will lead all the lessons.
• Parents are asked to talk about the baby and answer any questions the students may have.
• Families are asked to make a commitment for the whole school year.
• Only a parent can bring their baby to a classroom visit.

For more information, contact Markos Weiss, BHIS counselor, at 206-252-2702. You can also find out more about the Roots of Empathy program here and here. Here is a set of photos of the parents and babies in the program in 2009.