Westmeath Principal Backs Call For ‘Roots of Empathy’ Funding

Barnardos says demand has risen sharply for the scheme.

A children’s charity wants Government funding to expand its 'Roots of Empathy' programme. 

The Barnardos initiative brings babies into classrooms to help pupils understand emotions and runs in 110 schools across 21 counties. 

Every three weeks during the school year a baby and parent visit each class to improve kindness and inclusion, while reducing  aggressive behaviour.

Barnardos says demand has risen sharply, but it can no longer take on new schools without €100,000 a year in State funding.

Hannah Marriott, Principal of Taghmon National School in Westmeath says the programme helps children to understand that feelings are ok: 

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