Peace Education Curriculum development has a foundation of concepts and skills that promote peacemaking values. We begin with concepts – then select skills that can provide practice with a concept.

I write this with a heavy heart, but also with a sense of hope and inspiration. Our theme for PEACE camp 2024 was “Be Like a Tree.” Ironically, our peace camp took place in Altadena, California, where so many of our gorgeous trees, along with so many of our homes, went up in flames.

I believe the significance of peace can be expressed and felt in different ways for each human being. But, whatever the manner of feeling this peace, it has a common denominator. How can we help our young students achieve this wellbeing through peace within themselves and their surroundings?

David Brooks begins and ends this book with the importance of being seen. He begins with “The purpose of this book is to help us become more skilled at the art of seeing others and making them feel seen, heard and understood.” Why is this important as a parent or educator?

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “If we are to teach real peace in the world…we shall have to begin with children.” You are probably wondering how young children can begin to understand the concept of peace, let alone be able to practice active listening and conflict resolution.