Lead by example. That works for most things

Great tips and suggestions, thank you.

Showing the kids how to be empathetic is the major thing, also showing kids how to care for and help others

I think that role modelling empathy is key. My son has Aspergers/high functioning autism, a condition that is known for its apparent lack of empathy. Surprisingly, my son has it in spades. It’s one of the things that I’ve always loved about his behaviour and I guess something that kept me from thinking he had autism. I believe he has learned it, observed it from my husband and I.

This is a great article. I agree that empathy is so important and that it is something we can help our kids develop.

Great tips ! Think modelling is one of the most important. We have often made and written cards together and assemble a wee gift basket / gift.

I always found that the old adage – monkey see, monkey do fits this problem.
If your children see that you are empathic then they are liable to be also, they really do imitate a lot of what their parents do.
But the tips given are great.

You know, I tend to think we over think a lot of things nowadays. But I can see how some things can be overlooked, some should just be second nature.

Great ideas.. Empathy isn’t easily taught as such.. But it’s great to know ways of how to encourage it.

If you see a child stub there toe and cry,if you are with your child remind them how it felt and what you did to make it feel better! Memories of what we have experienced give us the ability to feel for others in similar situation. To be given reassurance and support even a kiss on injury can help……. I when young and years ago had a horrid uncle who would laugh if I got hurt and cried, long time ago but still remember how I felt inside..

Great article! Positive parent role models are so important.

Thanks for all the tips, this is a topic I struggle with approaching, very practical.

Like the comment of keeping your own feelings in check when showing empathy. I get so emotional with other people feelings.

Thank you, there are some great and practical tips in this article.

Beautifully written. Thank you for sharing, so many adults have not learned the lessons of empathy, it is a learned skill and needs to be taught to children early.

Our 4 1/2 year old is just starting to really grasp the idea of empathy. He asks a lot of questions when certain situations come up. Nice article just to refresh the strategies and ideas

Actually many people struggle with this and actively seek help for it as it affects relationships, schooling, work etc

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  • • mom93821 replied
    • 17 Dec 2014 , 6:48 am

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  Good point and good advice too.

All this is just done naturally to most people and children.

i love this article. this is a super important skill for children to learn and n amazing emotion for them to have

my little one is already choked full of so much empathy that sometimes we have to distance her from children who get upset easily and can’t be calmed quickly as she will get upset at not being able to help them.