Teaching empathy to kids

Empathy is a skill that can be increased with practice.

 

Model Empathy: Show empathy in your interactions with others. Kids learn by observing how you respond to people's feelings.

 

Discuss Feelings: Talk about emotions regularly. Ask your child how they think others might feel in different situations.

 

Use Stories: Read books or watch movies that highlight empathy. Discuss the characters' feelings and actions.

 

Encourage Perspective-Taking: Ask your child to imagine how someone else might feel in a given situation.

 

Praise Empathetic Behavior: Recognize and praise your child when they show empathy.

 

Engage in Charitable Activities: Involve your child in activities that help others, such as volunteering or donating.

 

To learn more, see:

(1)  https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/peaceful-parenting/201812/the-secret-teaching-child-empathy

(2)  https://www.understood.org/en/articles/teaching-empathy-activities

(3)  https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/seven_ways_to_foster_empathy_in_kids