Teaching children EMPATHY

Rising consumerism, a me-too culture and the monstrous and ubiquitous growth of social media have made it imperative to teach children empathy.

- ARUNA RAGHURAM

"Before you criticise or judge someone, walk a mile in their shoes."

This aphorism epitomises empathy — the capability to put yourself in the shoes of another person and understand their emotions.

According to well-known American psychologist Dr. Martin Seligman, empathy is critical for children to develop emotional resilience and build strong interpersonal relationships, essential for success in academics, work, and in life.

In most Western education systems, teaching children empathy is not optional. Several of them have formally included it in their school curriculums. For instance, Denmark has made empathy education mandatory in schools since 1993, teaching it as part of the curriculum through weekly classes called klassens tid for children aged six-16. These sessions help children understand emotions, resolve conflicts respectfully and collaborate with peers.

The results are impressive. Danish schools report lower levels of bullying, stronger peer-to-peer bonds and greater community engagement. Educators believe that Denmark's emphasis on emotional well-being — alongside academics — has contributed to the country’s consistently high rankings (Top 10) in the World Happiness Report. Long-term research studies also suggest that children exposed early to empathy education are more likely to enjoy academic success, graduate at higher rates and maintain healthier adult relationships.

Similarly, Japan teaches children empathy through omoiyari — the practice of anticipating the needs of others before they are even expressed, a form of selfless compassion. This ethic of empathy is introduced to Japanese school children from early age and reinforced through every day social behaviour.