Livin’ Veg

The Power and Promise of Humane Education September 15, 2009

Kids are particularly adept at seeing injustice and taking action to make the world a better place. However, too often in a child’s education, world issues are left out of the home and classroom. As a humane educator, I’ve seen children learn about an issue and immediately take action to try and right the wrong. Clothing drives, pet food drives, petitions against child labor, water conservation. As a person who teaches kids about all these issues, I’ve seen them stand up and try to put this planet back together.

But if you aren’t a humane educator, how do you go about talking to kids about these issues? What do you say? What kinds of activities do you do? Well, lucky for us, the guru and biggest advocate of humane education, Zoe Weil, wrote a book called “The Power and Promise of Humane Education.” It is a must read for all parents and educators.

In the book you’ll find information, activity suggestions, resources, case studies and so much more. Humane education covers three areas: social justice, animal welfare and environmental protection. Try to think of an issue that doesn’t fit in those three categories.

But really, the best thing you’ll get out of the book is a brand new way of looking at education. Learning that emphasizes compassion, responsibility and courage. Education that tells children they can change the world every day with every choice they make. I’ve used this book countless times and recommended it a zillion times. Parents can use it with their kids and teachers can use it in the classroom. Use it yourself or give it as a gift. The impact will last generations.