by Marsha Rakestraw Updated: 3/2/2021 The #MeToo and #TimesUp movements expanded the conversation about how common sexual harassment and assault of women is and the roles of power and patriarchy in perpetuating the objectification and oppression of women and girls. In early 2018, an offshoot campaign, the #MeTooK12 arose to help spotlight the prevalence of sexual…
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by Marsha Rakestraw Not only do people who are transgender have to deal with bullying, violence, and bigotry, but young people also must frequently grapple with changing bodies, unsupportive families and schools, and the challenges of navigating a very unique experience. Children who may be transgender need to read about others who share their experiences,…
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by Marsha Rakestraw As information about bullying becomes more pervasive, schools and others who serve children are striving to create anti-bully/pro-hero environments. Since bullying and exclusion can begin as early as preschool, it’s important that we who are helping children become their best selves begin cultivating humane values in our young children. October is Bullying…
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by Marsha Rakestraw You only have to watch kids in a garden or park to know that we humans have a special connection with the natural world. Studies have shown that we benefit physically, emotionally, and mentally (including academically) from our interactions with nature. Yet except for a hemmed-in tree here or there, or a…
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by Marsha Rakestraw We’re fans of the pro-hero approach, rather than using an anti-bullying framework, but given that most educational institutions still think and act in terms of anti-bullying, this 2013 study by the American Educational Research Association (AERA) is relevant to anyone concerned about bullying in schools and universities. “Prevention of Bullying in Schools,…
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by Matt Langdon It is very easy to find the term anti-bully these days. Look in any school and there’s a good chance you’ll see it on the walls. Look in the news and you’ll see governments (state, local, school) using it. It’s a term that has started making me cringe. For four quite different…
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by Marsha Rakestraw Backpacks, bells, and bus schedules are taking center stage as millions of kids, parents, and teachers jump into a new school year. If you’re a parent, it’s a great time to integrate humane choices into your child’s school experience and to inspire others. If you’re a teacher, the fresh start of a…
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