Children's Perspective-Taking and Understanding of Bullying Through Role-Playing Based on Bullying-Themed Picture Books

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 28
  In Roundtable Session: The Arts and Early Childhood Education

Abstract

This study examines how reading bullying-themed children’s picturebooks and role-playing based on these books help young children develop perspective-taking abilities and understanding of bullying. A total of 21 five-year-old children, enrolled in M childcare center located in a metropolitan city in South Korea, and their teacher Ms. Min participated. Over six weeks, six role-play activities based on carefully selected bully-themed picturebooks were implemented, following four steps: story reading and discussion, planning for role-playing, role-playing, and reflection. Children initially did not show any empathy toward victims of bullying but felt funny when characters were teased. Gradually, children considered different perspectives, made connections with their own experiences, and expressed sympathy. Furthermore, they came up with various solutions to solve bullying issues.

Authors

• Su-Jeong Wee, California State University - Los Angeles

• Kayoun Chung, Myongji University

• Minhee Kim