What Is Empathy?
Mark Ruffalo and Murray talk about what the word "Empathy” means.
Watch the video together, then point out that Murray had some trouble understanding what “empathy” meant: it’s the ability to understand and care about how someone else is feeling. There are different ways to build empathy at each age:
Babies
Notice how your baby reacts to your different facial expressions. Babies as young as six months old look to their caregivers to figure things out. When passing a baby to a grandparent to hold, you might smile warmly and reassuringly.
Toddlers
When kids recognize and label their own feelings, they can better recognize those of others—a key part of empathy. Try using “feeling” words in everyday moments. “Do you feel sad without your teddy bear?” or “That ice cream made you happy!”
Preschoolers
As children begin to interact more and more with others, tough situations come up (tussles over toys, making new friends, or deciding on the next game). In those times, asking kids to see the impact of their actions on someone’s feelings builds empathy. (“John is sad that he hasn’t picked a new game yet like everyone else. Can you give John a turn to pick a game from the box?”)
Safe & Together
When families have to leave home in order to stay safe, it helps to remember that home is where the love is.
Bubble Time
A quiet activity such as blowing bubbles can help both children and adults breathe deeply, slow down… and calm down.
Crayon Power
Coloring together can soothe both children and grown-ups.
See You Later Alligator
A special, loving good-bye routine can make separations easier.
Friendship Bracelets
When it’s hard to be apart from those we love, the littlest things can become big reminders that someone loves us and is thinking of us.
Cloud Watching
Spending time outside can feel like a “reset” on the day.
Pillow Hugs
Hugging a pillow covered with an item of a loved one’s clothing can help comfort children when they’re missing them.
