“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.”
- Aristotle
The education of a child’s mind and heart should not be an “either/or” choice. In our society, filled with an abundance of resources, educating both the minds and the hearts of all our children must be a “both/and” reality. To do less is “no education at all” and endangers the very foundation of our world.
Our educational institutions work so hard to teach reading, writing, math and science. But how many students will end up being scientists or engineers? On the other hand, every child in school will need to have the skills to successfully navigate life; to value and appreciate who they are as competent individuals; to cope with disappointments and setbacks; to play and work well with others; to make and maintain meaningful relationships; to make healthy, responsible decisions; to have aspirations and goals for the future.
Social, emotional and coping skills are sometimes thought of as “soft skills” that previous generations may have been taught by their parents and grandparents. Unfortunately, many children living in survival mode are no longer taught these skills at home. There are many reasons for this – overworked, stressed parents, lack of extended family nearby, economic challenges, chronic stress in the household, addiction or mental health problems, and just keeping up with the increasing demands of life in a world that is constantly changing.
Social, emotional and coping skills have an impact on mental health variables that improve children’s social relationships, increase their attachment to school and motivation to learn, and reduce antisocial, violent and drug-abusing behaviors.
Support groups are an excellent modality for children to learn and practice the skills they need both in the present and the future.
Life long - Life skills
. Every child is different, and every situation is different, but there is one constant, children thrive in a safe and caring environment with a nurturing adult(s). In such an environment, children have greater self-confidence and respect for themselves and others. And they are better equipped to engage in learning and the “education of the mind” by successfully coping with the distractions that previously prevented it. In a
CBSG® Program
group they learn from each other. They realize they are not the only one with problems and that it is okay to ask for help and to help others. Children and youth have a sense of belonging. And they are given the opportunity to have fun and just be a kid! The safe group environment is conducive to learning and practicing essential, healthy life skills.
For almost four decades and all across the world, Rainbow Days and all those trained through The Trans4m Center’s
CBSG® Program Facilitator Training
have provided hundreds of thousands of children and youth the opportunity to participate in the kind of support group experience previously described. They become more resilient as they learn and practice the skills taught through the effective, research based Five Major Messages.
Self-Awareness:
I AM
likable, capable, unique and valued.
Social-Awareness & Competence:
I CAN
treat others like I want to be treated.
Relationship Skills:
I HAVE
meaningful relationships and people who care about me.
Responsible Decision Making:
I WILL
make healthy, responsible decisions.
Sense of Purpose & Future:
I BELIEVE
in my purpose and future.
Rainbow Days and its training entity, The Trans4m Center are committed to educating the hearts and minds of children. To do less is not a choice. This is our call to action!
Whose heart will you reach today?
Cathey Brown, M.Ed.
Developer, CBSG Program
Director, The Trans4m Center
