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UnSelfie: A Book Review Michele Borba’s book on cultivating empathy in an all-about-me world offers hands-on strategies and practical advice for parents. We live in a world where empathy is often undervalued and the me rather than the us is the focus. Dr. Borba stresses the importance of developing a healthy sense of empathy as a way to help children succeed in the future. She discusses the self-absorption epidemic and brings attention bullying behaviours and the correl...ation to less resilient children who do not exhibit empathetic traits. What I found most alarming is the reference to the selfie generation and the negative impact it is having on the quality of relationships our children are developing. The alarming statistics and the rise in narcissism called for some further research on my part. As I dug deeper and compared different theories, the same message remained; empathy is not practiced enough, mixed messages are confusing our children about morality and our world needs more kindness. Regular exercise of an activity or skill is the way to become proficient in it. This stands true for empathy. The more you practice this skill, the more empathetic you will become. Dr. Borba’s chapter on moral courage is optimistic and encouraging. She offers specific, concrete strategies on how children can be change agents for the future and how this courage can positively impact humanity. She states, Morally courageous children are the true Unselfies: quiet, unsung heroes who don’t expect accolades and trophies, but who act on their concern for others out of moral beliefs. And, oh, how the world needs them. This book allowed for some self-reflection and although I try to practice empathy and compassion regularly and model it for my children, there is definitely more we can all do. Empathy allows us to connect with others in our community and across cultures. It allows us to become more collaborative and respond more positively to social issues. It fosters tolerance and compassion and it has a positive role in creating social change. Empathy can help us develop as individuals and contribute to the greater good as well. As Dr. Borba’s says, Empathy is the root of humanity and the foundation that helps our children become good, caring people. The Empathy Advantage also gives them a huge edge at happiness and success. How do you foster empathy in your life? See more

Happy Valentine’s Day from Edutalkers!

Today is Family Literacy Day. Read our latest blog and join the conversation!

As the year comes to an end and a new one is quickly approaching, we wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support. Although Edutalkers was launched only two months ago, we have felt so much love and encouragement from family, friends and new faces that have joined in on the conversation. We would like to end this year with a reflective thought. As adults, whether it be a parent, teacher, aunt, uncle, grandparent or even a passerby, can you reflect on a ...moment with a child you feel was worthy of describing? In that moment, did you offer positive feedback, share in a giggle, hug, listen attentively, offer advice, inspire, motivate, love? Think of that experience and feel proud. You have truly made a difference. These opportunities present themselves every day. We have the power to connect if we give a moment of our time. Our words and our actions can have profound impact on a child’s life, as we help them make better decisions or as we offer encouragement when they struggle to overcome a challenge. The best part of taking a moment out of our busy lives to have a meaningful discussion or interaction with a child is that it not only benefits that child, but us as well. We’d like to end on a quote by Sean Junkins that was written for teachers, but really speaks to all adults that seek to inspire a child. So often you find that the students you’re trying to inspire are the ones that end up inspiring you. Happy Holidays and all the best for 2019!

Congratulations, Leila Sadri!!!