November Character Trait – Compassion
November 10, 2008
The character trait for November is Compassion. This trait was designated for November because it ties in easily with the school’s study of the origins of Thanksgiving, and discussion of our observances of that strictly American holiday.
But Compassion means so much more. Building Good Citizens for Texas (an integration based character education program) defines Compassion as “empathy and respect for others in school, life and career settings, accepting the right of all people to be treated with courtesy and dignity”.
From pre-K student to high school, and for adults also, empathy and respect should be expected.
Many of our students have not experienced respectful treatment at home. Some, because of their self-perceived inadequacies are more likely to treat others rudely or condescendingly. John Maxwell maintains, “Hurting people hurt people”. Rude, disrespectful, or belittling behavior or speech have no place in the classroom, on the playground, or in the sports arena. We have an obligation to model respect for students, faculty and support staff. And beyond our modeling, we must treat students as well as coworkers fairly and courteously.
Trust me, I know with some students that is a stretch! But that stretch must still be made. Robert Collier said, “Your chances of success in any undertaking can always be measured by your belief in yourself.” Part of our task in teaching Compassion is to help students believe in themselves.
What are some of the strategies you can do to teach Compassion in the classroom on a daily basis?
- Greet each child at the door with at least a smile. Whenever possible, offer a compliment on their smile, or being on time, or any other appropriate “Atta Boy/Atta Girl”. Every child, young or old, can be treated with dignity.
- The concept of positive reinforcement absolutely still works. Whenever the situation allows, praise or compliment a child for doing what he or she is supposed to be doing, i.e. getting homework in on time, speaking at the appropriate time, helping others, etc. Praise works. Belittling, nagging, sarcasm rarely does.
- Discuss with students the reason for each of your classroom rules. It is difficult to obey a rule for which we see no need. It seems many students see no need for most of our rules. We must raise expectations for our students and for ourselves. Students will meet those higher expectations. Note this quote from a 6 year old student, as told by Educator/Author Harry Wong, “My teacher thought I was smarter than I am, so I was!” We must expect our students to show compassion in balancing individual wants with the welfare of the group.
- Know your students. Some of them are coming from very difficult situations. Granted a tough home environment is a challenge for the children, but we have an obligation to help them perform anyway. In other words, part of our work is to know each student, and show them how to rise above what they might think is their best. Compassion is a gentle pushing for excellence.
How can you show November’s Character Trait, Compassion, through your respectful and courteous work with ALL children in your charge?
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