Helping Others: Memorable Character Lessons
The Lindbergh Early Childhood Education center strengthens character education between the home and school by utilizing the practice “Helping Others.” With this practice, ECE families and the school work together to help those less fortunate or to thank others for their service to the community. By implementing Helping Others, children, with the help of teachers and parents, learn more about Lindbergh School District’s character words. This initiative unifies character education lessons taught at home and in school, with a goal of helping others in the community. The entire school becomes involved, through newsletters stating the common goal of the monthly project, and families working with the school to help teach character education to the young learners. For example, August’s “cooperation” project is a “School Supply Drive for Angels’ Arms,” to aid foster care students in the District who are in need. With each monthly project, the students at Lindbergh Early Childhood have an opportunity to contribute their thoughts and ideas in class meetings. Class discussions include: community needs, health, poverty, social issues and environment. Teachers also discuss curriculum ideas filled with opportunities to engage students in character-based activities. Through newsletters to parents and messages on bulletin boards, Lindbergh Early Childhood further bridges the community by involving entire families. The ECE families remark that they enjoy these service-learning experiences because they engage their children in a meaningful way and help instill good character at school, home and the community.