Listening is the first step in helping one another heal. We need to heal from the isolation, fear, and division of the pandemic and remote learning. Sometimes when we see someone in pain our first instinct is to fix or distract. This article shares insights and activities to engage youth in listening as an act of healing.
In the recent inauguration of our 46th president, we heard about the power of American ideals like unity, healing, hope, and service. The nation depends on all of us working together for the common good.
"Much is asked of us as U.S. citizens. Are we up to it? Will we meet the moment? There isn’t anything we can’t do, if we do it together. We need to show up for each other.” - President Joe Biden
Showing up for each other starts in our communities with our own power to act. This Community Mapping guide helps youth explore their community's assets and listen to its needs. Service-learning begins with observation and curious listening before we plan and take generous action. When we listen, we learn about needs and opportunities and a purpose bigger than ourselves. We learn what resources we can lean on and what we can do to make things better. We can listen to experts, take polls, read information, or make observations. Community mapping helps us identify the assets, support systems, and people that work toward a better community.
Take inspiration from a picture book that welcomes all and invites us to embrace the strength in diversity. This book is for all ages, whether as listener or mentor.
School is a community where diversity is celebrated and people of all backgrounds, abilities, and appearances are welcome. This book is a rhythmic colorful tour of the first day of school and all of the activities taking place. The pages are filled with diverse representation, warmth, and an inclusive “all are welcome here” mantra.
As young people join in conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion, share this book as it explores the history of racism to empower youth to affect change.
View this timely literature guide written by a high school world history teacher.
These elementary, middle school, and high school lesson plans combine art with language to make a difference. These lessons and activities, customized for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, provide year-round activities.
In this activity, we use visual literacy skills to discuss an artistic image. We listen respectfully to the different opinions and perspectives of others. We then identify a need in the community and create a simple image that tells others to think differently or take action.
