From Sorry to Kindness
Teaching Preschoolers Empathy That Matters
Teaching children empathy goes beyond just saying “sorry”—it’s about helping them understand and care about others’ feelings. At its core, empathy lays the foundation for meaningful connections and kindness. Here are seven strategies to nurture empathy in young children:
1. Model Empathy
Show empathy in your behavior by acknowledging and validating others’ feelings. For example:
“I see you’re upset; how can I help?”
Let children see you actively listen to and support others. Modeling this behavior creates a powerful example they can follow.
2. Teach Emotional Awareness
Help children identify and name their own emotions as well as others. For example:
“It looks like she’s sad because her block tower fell over. How do you think she feels?”
Use books, stories, or videos to discuss characters’ emotions and choices, making feelings relatable and easier to understand.
3. Encourage Perspective-Taking
Ask guiding questions to help children consider others’ points of view:
“How would you feel if someone did that to you?”
“What do you think he needs right now?”
Role-playing games are an excellent tool to practice understanding and responding to others’ feelings.
4. Offer Alternatives to “Sorry”
Teach children to express concern or take positive actions instead of offering an automatic “sorry.” Examples include:
“Are you okay? Can I help you?”
“I didn’t mean to hurt you—how can I make it better?”
Guide them in repairing situations, like helping rebuild a knocked-over tower or inviting a friend to join a game.
5. Praise Empathetic Behavior
When a child demonstrates empathy, acknowledge it specifically:
“I saw how you helped your friend when she was upset. That was very kind of you.”
Highlight the positive impact of their actions, helping children associate empathy with meaningful outcomes.
6. Create Opportunities for Empathy Practice
Foster group activities that require cooperation and teamwork.
Provide chances for children to care for others, such as helping a younger sibling, taking care of a pet, or participating in community service.
7. Avoid Forcing Apologies
Instead of insisting on a “sorry,” guide children to reflect on the situation:
“What happened? How do you think they felt? What can we do to make it better?”
This approach encourages genuine reflection and empathy rather than automatic responses.
Final Thoughts
Empathy is a skill that develops over time through consistent modeling and practice. By helping children notice, understand, and respond to others’ feelings, we lay the foundation for meaningful relationships and a kinder world.