Compassion is not weakness. It is the strongest force a human being can develop – and the foundation of all true education.
Amonashvili's Pedagogy of Love
Shalva Amonashvili, the Georgian educator and humanist, taught that education without love is no education at all. Not sentimental love that permits everything – but deep, respectful love that sees the child in their dignity.
At the Humanistic School, this love is not a concept. It is lived practice.
Practicing Compassion
Compassion begins with self-compassion. Many parents and teachers are their own harshest critics. They expect perfection from themselves – and transfer this expectation to children.
What if you treated yourself with the same kindness you would offer a good friend?
A Heart Meditation
Sit comfortably. Place one hand on your heart. Feel the heartbeat.
Breathe in and think: "I am enough." Breathe out and think: "I am doing my best."
Repeat this for five minutes. Daily.
After a month, you will notice: you are more patient. With yourself. With your children. With the world.