How Early Childhood Programs Can Help Children Affected by Violence Heal

March 2013

Entering its eighth year, this program, led by Dr. Diane Levin, allows students the unique opportunity to experience the healing process that is currently underway in Northern Ireland after decades of sectarian fighting. Participants will travel to Belfast and study the exemplary peacebuilding efforts in early childhood settings. Open to juniors, seniors, and graduate students.

In addition to exploring what this healing process can teach us about helping children living in communities affected by conflict around the world, participants will engage in cultural activities and explored the beautiful landscape of the North Antrim Coast.

Faculty Leader: Dr. Diane Levin (dlevin@wheelock.edu)

Here are some photos from the 2011 trip:

Signing the "Peace Wall" that still separates Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods during the Peace Tour of Belfast.

2011 participants during a visit to historic Stormont, the Northern Ireland Parliament Building.

2011 Northern Ireland Service Learning participant Kaitlin Brunelle reads to children during her placement experience in Belfast.

Participants in the 2011 Northern Ireland Service Learning Program explore the playground at a local childcare center.