Summary

At the heart of the program are a neighbourhood infant and parent who visit the centre every three weeks over the program year. A trained Family Guide coaches children to observe the baby’s development and to label the baby’s feelings. In this experiential learning| the baby is the “Teacher” and a lever| which the Family Guide uses to help children identify and reflect on their own feelings and the feelings of others. This “emotional literacy” taught in the program lays the foundation for safer and more caring centres| where children are the “Changers.” They are more competent in understanding their own feelings and the feelings of others (empathy)| and are therefore less likely to physically| psychologically| and emotionally hurt each other through bullying and other unkind acts.