This week I want to talk about the importance of teaching our children how to differentiate between right and wrong. I have been thinking a lot about the concept of the "bully", and what a dangerous and entrapping role it can be. First of all, the "bully" does not exist without the help of the "mob", who egg him or her on and give them the ego boost to continue hurting others.
As parents and teachers it is important to speak with our children about not joining the "mob", because in the end it can lead to hurting others and ones selves.
The very prolific speaker, Lídia Aratangy, renowned psychoanalyst and educator who came to Leonardo da Vinci a few weeks ago was shinning the light on some of the dangers of the mob effect. Warning parents of how this type of behavior can lead to unfortunate events.
In Infantil III, we are working on the concept of friendship and communication. When there is a conflict, both Suzani and I are helping the children to gain independence in asking their friends for what they need. The children are using their words instead of their force to be heard. Also we are stressing the idea of choice. Each child has a choice to do the right thing or the wrong thing. Just because a friend is egging them on doesn`t mean that they have to act. Many more instances are occurring of the children of Infantil III using their better judgment.
In the end, this is one of the most important aspects of education, teaching our children how to make decisions and how to differentiate. It is a skill that will follow them through their life and help them participate in making a more peaceful and loving world.