Blog Post 6: Reflection- Kahne & Westheimer

Reading this blog about helping those in need, brings me back to an experience I had at the childcare center I used to work at. The project Mr. Johnson had his class participate in serving learning projects throughout the community of their choice, for those in need. The center I worked at only has children up to age 5, we didn't leave the center and explore the community but we did a lesson about how others may not have the same things in life that we may think is normal to us and they are not as fortunate. Working in Woonsocket, we were able to work with some local community service project. A group came in to talk to my 5 year olds and they shared how people their age can help. The members of the group explained how others may need the things that we take for granted or not use. My students were asked if they can think of anything they have at home that they think someone in need might get more use out of. To my surprise I had many children comprehend and answer. Most of them said they have toys that they don't use and such.


Hearing my students at such a young age understand that others may use what they don't made me so happy. We organized a donation drive with the local community service project and held a toy drive. We had families donate toys, books and clothes. We also participate in Adopt-A-Family for the holidays where each student picks a name of a a child on a list we have for families that sign up to receive donations. The children love doing this and making cards for these families. Sometimes we get thank you cards and pictures of the families we helped. This was such a great learning opportunity for children at such a young age to see how they can participate in helping others. I even had a child share that him and his family donated some things to a local store that send it out to families in need. I felt that the lesson really made an impact and it helped them be more compassionate.

What both Mr. Johnson and Ms. Adams did with there classrooms is awesome. Being a future elementary school teacher I will make sure to keep in mind of making sure children understand the importance of helping their community. Setting a good example at such a young age can be beneficial and a great activity to do as a parent. Here's some links with resources for young children to participate in making a difference:
A Family's Guide to Getting Involved
Tips for Volunteering with Kids
Six Resources to Get Students Involved in Community Service