In a powerful demonstration of the effects of bullying, an educator from Birmingham, UK, has captured widespread attention through a compelling lesson involving two apples. While adults often recognize the profound impact of bullying, children may struggle to grasp its significance. This inspired educator, Emma Harper, who travels to various schools teaching mindfulness and relaxation techniques, creatively illustrated this concept in a recent Facebook post that has since gone viral.
Harper presented her students with two apples: one pristine and untouched, the other intentionally bruised from being dropped on the ground. Upon inspection, the class noted that both apples appeared identical in size, color, and freshness. To begin the lesson, Harper took the bruised apple and expressed her disdain for it, stating that it was ugly and undesirable. She encouraged the students to join in, prompting them to call the apple names like “you’re a rotten fruit” and “nobody wants you here.” Initially, the students looked at her as if she were out of her mind, but they quickly became engaged in the activity, berating the poor apple with increasingly harsh remarks.
Next, Harper shifted her focus to the unblemished apple, inviting the children to share kind words like, “You’re a beautiful apple,” and “Your color is vibrant.” Despite both apples appearing the same on the outside, the students were intrigued to see how they differed beneath the surface.
When Harper cut open the apples, the contrast was striking. The apple that had been subjected to unkind words was bruised and mushy inside, while the one that received kindness was crisp and juicy. “In that moment, the children understood,” Harper explained. “The damage inflicted by words is often hidden, just like the bruises inside the apple.” She emphasized that while some may not express their feelings, the emotional scars from bullying can persist, reinforcing the necessity for kindness in every interaction.
Since Harper’s post went live, it has garnered over 200,000 shares and more than 168,000 likes, with many advocating for this impactful lesson to be replicated in classrooms globally. The simplicity of the exercise resonates deeply, illustrating the psychological consequences of bullying in a relatable manner.
In her closing remarks, Harper expressed gratitude for the support and reiterated the responsibility we share in combating bullying. “Unlike an apple, we can prevent this harm,” she stated. “We can empower children to reject unkindness and encourage them to protect one another, much like a young girl in class who chose not to insult the apple.” She poignantly concluded, “The tongue has no bones, but it can break a heart. Choose your words wisely.”
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In summary, Emma Harper’s creative lesson about bullying using apples has resonated profoundly with students and adults alike, highlighting the critical importance of kindness and understanding the emotional impact of our words.