Berlin-Brandenburg schools trial "Baby-Watching"

A study led by paediatrician Ulrike Gillert is examining the impact of “Baby-Watching” on the development of empathy in schoolchildren. While teachers and researchers are reporting positive results, long-term implementation of the project remains unclear. 

School in Bernau trials “Baby-Watching”

Gillert has been visiting schools in Berlin and parts of Brandenburg to lead discussions with students and answer their questions on infant behaviour. The children are told to observe a five-month-old baby's habits and behavioural patterns, while being encouraged to try to understand the baby's motives.

rbb 24 accompanied Gillert on a trip to a school in Bernau. There, the class showed curiosity and wonder when observing the baby, and enthusiasm through their questions to Gillert. After a few visits, their teacher was already able to notice small changes in her pupils' behaviour. The children seem to be more considerate and careful with one another. 

The school is still undecided whether or not this project will be continued. While the effects have been positive so far, there probably won’t be class time dedicated to "Baby-Watching" long-term. For now, the regular appointments with Gillert will remain. 

“BASE” gains popularity in Germany

Gillert initiated her study due to concerns that children in her practise struggle with understanding other people's feelings. She believes that learning how to deal with emotions is not a given, and wishes to give kids in Germany the opportunity to do so in the classroom.

The original project was developed by Karl-Heinz Brisch, a child psychologist from Munich. Brisch has been advocating for the positive benefits of “Babywatching against Aggression and Anxiety - for Sensitivity and Empathy” (BASE) for years.

Further studies show that regularly observing babies helps children to develop sympathy towards others. Whether this project will become the norm in Germany remains unclear.