The second topic that the kids spoke about was how to be nice and use kind words (as much as possible). We read the book Words Are Not for Hurting (Board Book) (Best Behavior Series)
.It is so important for kids to use words (if they can), and to be able to express how they are feeling without stress or pressure.
Of course they will not always get it right - we as adults don't even come close. I expect they will have down days and anxiety-filled days. My goal is really to keep insisting that they use words...kind words when possible, and that their feelings are valid.
I also believe that one of the best way to work with children and their feelings is not to try to talk them through, or "fix" their feelings every time they get upset. I am not speaking about babies, who have specific needs. I am speaking about young children who are beginning to explore and understand their feelings, and also empathy.
The book
The book Words Are Not for Hurting
is all about the power of words, and how we can make people feel good or bad depending on the words we use. We learnt that sometimes we don't mean to hurt others with words, and we can always say "I'm sorry" if we mean it.Z has been looking at this book since forever...big boy too and while the subject matter is not easy to discuss with a toddler (for example), I get the impression that kids as young as Z and JM understands what is going on. For example, every single time Z sees the child crying (in the book), she tries to rub his head; while JM looks very concerned.
Empathy starts here...
Words are not for hurting is a wonderful book, and we love having it in our dayhome.
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