“I felt like the biggest impact was on the children who are often marginalized. The children who, for whatever reason, are often the ones with few (or no) friends, who say inappropriate things, who don't read social cues, who struggle to fit in.....those kids just blossomed during the [Roots of Empathy] lessons. ...And it helped the other children [have] patience....”

Volunteer InstructorWashington, USA

“They [Students] have a sense of why it's so important to understand themselves and others, as well as why it’s important to care about those feelings. The Teacher shared that she knows her students better (especially the ones distance learning) because of ROE and is better able to meet them where they are at... I think this will have a tremendous impact on the students’ sense of belonging and connection.”

Volunteer InstructorHawaii, USA

“The children learned how to be more caring with one another. I noticed this in how they talked with each other toward the end of the year. They also grew more in understanding about the baby's developing abilities and temperament, and in turn, could relate this information to themselves and their classmates. Overall, they seemed to develop more thoughtfulness, and sensitivity. It was a lovely class to work with, and these children participated whole-heartedly in the program. [It] was beautiful to see!”

Volunteer InstructorOregon, USA