Empathy for Kids

Isn’t it amazing to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes and understand their perspective? This skill is called empathy, and it’s crucial for kids to develop. It helps them create meaningful friendships, become more emotionally intelligent and treat everyone with kindness and inclusivity. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why empathy is so important for our students.

Building Strong Relationships – Empathy is the foundation of strong, fulfilling relationships. When children practise empathy with their peers, family and friends, they cultivate deeper connections that build trust. This helps them understand the emotions and needs of others, leading to more meaningful and lasting bonds.

Conflict Resolution – Children who practice empathy are well-equipped to resolve conflicts peacefully, as they understand and appreciate the perspectives and feelings of others. 

Social Skills – Teaching kids to be empathetic is important for helping them get along with others. When they can pick up on social cues and understand body language, they’re more likely to make friends and work well with other people. 

Learn About Empathy With a Printable Reader

If you’re a teacher in search of a new teaching tool, you’ve arrived at the right place! Teach Starter has produced a 12-page printable mini-book that’s ideal for year 2 and 3 students. This resource, created by a teacher, teaches students about empathy, how to identify other people’s emotions, and how to express empathy towards their peers.

How to Get Your Empathy Mini-Book

If you are ready for your students to use this printable mini-book, head on over to the green download button to choose from the quick-print PDF document or the editable Google Slides file. If selecting the Google Slides option, please note that you will first be prompted to make a copy of the resource to your personal drive before accessing it.

After printing the mini-book, cut the pages in half, stack them to assemble, and staple the pages along the left-hand side.

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a Teach Starter Collaborator.

More Resources for Your Empathy Lessons

Are you looking for some more SEL activities to cut down on your planning time? Check out some of our suggested resources to use when teaching about empathy in your classroom.

teaching resource

Piecing Together Emotions – Puzzle Activity

Guide your students to identify the feelings and emotions of others with this social emotional learning puzzle activity.

teaching resource

'Ways To Show Empathy' Classroom Poster and Worksheet

Teach your students how to share the feelings of others with this empathy for kids poster and worksheet.