In the previous blog, I wrote about Peace Team -- the first force and the second force. Well, the Third Force has just begun! What is this about? How was this "third force" created? Why does it matter?
It's all about being of service WITH others. Sometimes, the tendency in being of service is to do something "to" or "for." Both are wonderful ways of helping and very valuable. When we are of service "with" others, there is greater unity and bonding with the other person or situation. We become more involved in what they are experiencing and there is opportunity to develop deeper compassion and empathy.
For several weeks, Mrs. Johnson (Art), all the fifth graders, and myself investigated the first and second forces of Peace Team and looked for various ways to be more in unity with others. Feelings and ideas were shared as concerns and questions surfaced. There were times of joy, frustration, excitement, eagerness, overwhelm, and anticipation. At times, it would have been easier to lay the schedule and duties out for the children, telling them that this is the way it was going to be.
Mrs. Johnson and I were facilitators, guiding and watching the process unfold. As their voices were honored, our students felt safe enough to take the lead in sharing their feelings, concerns, interests, and ideas. During our own collaboration, Mrs. Johnson and I often talked about the amount of patience and trust that is called for in using this approach, as we also examined our own beliefs, uncertainties, joys, and fears.
The formation of Peace Team -- The Third Force -- has begun to take shape! The fifth graders are delighted in their new ways of being of service with others. Here are the ideas for service that we've come up with so far.
* Lunch buddies with gr. 1/2 - sitting at the lunch table and getting to know the students.
* Preschool lunch helpers - help set up for lunch.
* Preschool nap helpers - help get children ready for nap.
* Tire swing timer.
* Grades 1/2 games/ activity organizer and leader.
Why does this matter? It matters because we all belong to our community, and building unity and deep relationships take time, patience, and compassion. Modeling for our children is an important way to do this.
Grades 3-4
The third and fourth graders continue to work on building a safe and caring community. Getting to know oneself is a vital and important beginning for fostering relationships with others. We have been exploring different feelings and recognizing that feelings are an important part of who we are. While working in small groups using shells and other objects from nature, the children shared stories of what they they like, don't like, and things that they do well.
"I don't like at volleyball when I serve and I hit with my fingers instead of my palm."
"I don't like to clean up my desk."
"I don't like to wake up in the morning and go to school."
"I feel really happy when I score a goal in soccer."
"I feel happy when I get a new video game."
"I like when I hang out with my cat, Koko. He really makes me happy because he is so cute!"
"I am good at listening."
"I am good at helping people."
"I'm really good at baseball."
