Una’s Chat

Dear Families,

There is a lot of research supporting the understanding that, beginning at infancy, children are naturally empathic. Infants and young children will cry or look anxious in response to another person’s distress and mirror expressions.

 We see evidence of this continuing each day in our classrooms, as children automatically mirror the emotions of others and respond to another child’s needs. However, we all know that many adults have not retained their natural capacity for empathy, and to be true citizens of the world, it is crucial that our children have the capability to step into the shoes of another to appreciate social/emotional and cultural perspectives that may be different from their own. 

So how do we nurture this empathy into adulthood?  First and foremost, model empathy to your child—and to others in the presence of your child. Next, support your child’s empathetic tendencies.  As adults we sometimes judge children’s interests and desires to help others as interfering or being nosy, but you can provide your child with guidelines in exercising socially-appropriate empathy (e.g. “Yes, she does look upset/frustrated/scared/lonely, you could ask if she would like your help.”) It can really help your child take the focus off of his or her own fears when he or she is faced with a challenging situation to identify others with the same fears and offer support.

Of course, in a broader sense, expose your child to lots of cultural diversity. Talk about how we are all different in many ways and how we can have many different reactions to the same experience depending on our perspective. Talk about perspective, particularly with your older child.  Discuss how perspective is developed based on experiences. With every age child, model and discuss how we can support each other with our strengths and look to others to support us in our challenges. 

From diversity, understanding, and empathy comes strength.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Una

OPEN HOUSE THIS SUNDAY

A full school is a healthy school, so please encourage friends, family and neighbors to attend our Open House this Sunday from 1-3.
Event is geared toward adults. Thank you for your support!

First Committee Meeting

Our first committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 24 at 8:45am at Panera Bread in West Hartford. 

Please contact Amanda Aronson if you are interested in helping to plan, can volunteer on event day, or donate food.

Financial Aid Applications Now Being Accepted

The deadline for submitting Financial Aid applications for the 2012-13 school year is February 15.  Forms are available on our website. Click here to be directed. Should you have any questions, please contact Mary McHale at ext. 26.

Recess Programming Sign-Ups Are Now Open

Click here to see our Winter Break programming,
which runs from 2/21-2/24.

Click here to see our Summer Days programming,
which runs from 6/18-8/10.

2012 Art of Learning Gala

Please Save-the-Date for the 2012 Art of Learning Annual Auction Gala on Friday, May 11, 2012 at The Riverview in Simsbury.

If you would like to be involved with the committee, please contact Susan Rich-Bye
at 860.236.4565 ext. 28.

Baby News!

Congratulations to Ms. Maria and her husband, Ben.
They welcomed Daniel Landon to the world on Saturday, January 14; all are happy and healthy!

FA NEWS

New Date for Ice Skating Social (previous date conflicted with the Super Bowl):  The Family Association will be hosting an outdoor ice skating social at Simsbury Farms on Saturday, March 3. Visit the MSGH calendar for more details. 

Volunteers Needed:  Hosts are needed for upcoming Coffee Talks, spring PlayDates, and the Ice Skating Social. Contact Rebecca London if you can help.

Don't Forget to Fill Out Your Survey

Last week, a survey was emailed to you and the responses we have gotten so far have been very helpful. It only takes about 5 minutes to fill out, so if you haven't had a chance to complete it yet, please consider doing so this week. Thank you for helping us serve you better.

Want to Hear the Sound of Strings?

The MSGH Suzuki Cello program is in full swing and thriving. Inquiries are welcome throughout the year; just contact the Main Office for more information.

Happy Chinese New Year!

Monday, January 23 marks the Chinese New Year.
Click here to learn more about this important holiday.