Roots of Empathy

Roots of Empathy is an evidence-based classroom program that has shown significant effect in reducing levels of aggression among school children by raising social/emotional competence and increasing empathy.

The program is facilitated by Early Intervention staff at Wilberforce Elementary in the grade 4/5 class. Once a week, for 27 weeks, the instructor delivers a comprehensive and attuned curriculum to the development and interests of the children.

At the heart of the program are classroom visits by an infant and parent, once every three weeks. Through guided observations of this loving relationship, children learn to identify and reflect on their own thoughts and feelings and those of others.

Independent evaluations consistently show children who receive Roots of Empathy experience dramatic and lasting effects in terms of increased positive social behaviour (sharing, helping and including) and decreased aggression.

Due to COVID -19 Roots of Empathy will not be running at this time