Originally published in TEACH Magazine, May/June 2018 Issue
Let’s go back to basics. In order to create a classroom environment where meaningful teaching and learning can take place, it must first be a safe space where students are comfortable being themselves. When students are disrespected or bullied at school, it will negatively affect their home life, impacting self-esteem and social skills.
To address this, and perhaps stop it before it starts, teachers can promote kindness and empathy. Here are some apps that can help positively influence the classroom environment and reinforce essential social-emotional skills. They serve as an extra reminder to students that a little kindness can go a long way.
Even Monsters Are Shy
(Paid – iOS)
Kindness reminder: A friend’s support can make all the difference
Even Monsters are Shy is an iPad app that engages kids ages 4 and over in solving everyday challenges with empathy. Through eight mini games and interactive storytelling, kids play and interact with Ben as he tries to help his monster friend Gurk overcome shyness. In a three-part plan, Ben helps his monster by teaching it how to smile, demonstrating how to be friendly, and reminding Gurk to be his “sweet and silly” monstrous self. Every screen has hidden activities and surprises.
One Globe Kids
(Free to try – Website)
Kindness reminder: Make connections and form understanding
One Globe Kids, aimed at students 4 to 10 years of age, puts the globe in children’s hands. This resource allows students to meet kids across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. Users can learn what other children like, what they eat, how they speak, and more. Students can engage in interactive stories, practice a new language, and find what they have in common with kids all over the world. One Globe Kids inspires students to see and accept everyone’s differences as natural.
ReThink
(Paid – iOS, Android, Website)
Kindness reminder: Words are powerful tools that affect those around us
ReThink is a free app designed to stop cyberbullying before it happens. Adolescents spend a lot of time online and have the opportunity to impulsively send messages that, upon second thought, may be offensive. ReThink detects hurtful content in real-time before it is posted and prompts the user to reconsider posting that message. The app encourages reconsideration of thought and action. As a result, adolescents have changed their minds over 93 percent of the time, deciding not to send those painful messages.
The Social Express
(Free – iOS, Website)
Kindness reminder: Be aware and responsive to your emotions and the emotions of others
This resource from Brighten Learning is designed for kids ages 6 and older. It focuses on identifying and coping with a variety of emotions through human facial expressions, body language, and written and spoken words. The app uses CGI-animated videos to show brief social encounters in settings that are relevant. It aims to help children learn problem-solving techniques and coping strategies such as positive self-talk, breathing exercises, and taking breaks.
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