No worries for students at Lawrence Early Childhood Center

Inspired by reading the book “Silly Billy” by Anthony Browne, students at the Lawrence Early Childhood Center created Worry Dolls that originate with artists from Guatemala as they learned about Hispanic culture, history, language and the contributions Hispanic people have made in the United States in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month.

“Our young learners had a terrific time learning about Worry Dolls and creating their own. Part of our goal with social-emotional learning at our school is to teach important social skills to develop our students’ emotional intelligence,” Kathleen Graham, principal of Early Childhood Center and director of Special Programs, said in a news release. “Hispanic Heritage Month is also another great opportunity for our school to affirm and demonstrate our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity for all of our students, staff, and community as we are a cultural mosaic here in Lawrence!”

According to legend, the Mayan people believed that when you tell your worries to the doll and place the doll under a pillow at night, in the morning the worries disappear.

After reading “Silly Billy, “ the students were able to better understand the concept of a Worry Doll and their emotional significance. Families were encouraged to speak with their children about what worries them, and who they can speak to when they are feeling worried.

“I am incredibly proud of our young students and to see their interest in learning about the Hispanic culture, David Lichtenstein, an Early Childhood Center art teacher said in the release. “Students are learning and celebrating through a variety of ways including instructional lessons in their classrooms with their teachers about Hispanic individuals who have made an impact on our history.”