BUILDING EMPATHY IN KIDS

Empathy is a key social skill that impacts how we move through the world around us. However, it needs to be nurtured to truly blossom!

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Empathy - the ability to understand and share the feelings of others - is one of the most valuable traits we can instill in our children. It boosts their emotional wellbeing and helps them form strong relationships, make ethical decisions and navigate the world with kindness and integrity. Yet, empathy doesn't just develop on its own. Like any other skill, it needs to be nurtured and reinforced through everyday interactions, conversations and positive role models.

In a fast-paced world filled with distractions, competition and digital influence, raising empathetic children requires intentional effort. It's not just about teaching kids to be “nice” - it’s about helping them truly understand different perspectives, recognise emotions in others, take personal accountability and respond with compassion.

So, how can we cultivate empathy in our kids? Here are some key ways to help them grow into kind, caring and emotionally intelligent individuals.

BE THE MIRROR

Children learn by watching the adults around them. If they see their parents practicing empathy by listening attentively, showing kindness and treating others with respect, they will naturally mirror that behavior.

It’s good to subtly explain empathy in yourself. If a server at a restaurant seems flustered, you could acknowledge their effort by saying, "She looks really busy. Let's be patient." If someone shares bad news, respond with compassionate words like, "That must be really tough for them." These small moments teach kids that empathy isn't just a lesson - it's a way of interacting with the world.

ENCOURAGE PERSPECTIVE-TAKING

One of the best ways to develop empathy is to help little ones see things from another person's point of view, so try to encourage them to imagine how someone else might feel in a given situation.