![](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Caring_Video_LearningEmpathy-560x420.jpg)
Learning Empathy
Show children that, no matter how different we are, we all share the same big planet.
- Watch the video together, then watch it again, asking children to name the animals they see.
- Point out that Earth is home to a lot of different creatures. Discuss the difference between wild animals and animals that depend on humans to care for them, those that can be pets. Talk about treating animals thoughtfully—whether it’s handling a pet gently and taking good care of it, or keeping a safe distance from wild animals and helping to make sure their habitats are clean and protected.
- Try one or more of these ideas:
- Invite kids to show you their favorite stuffed animal—toys are the first introduction many kids have to the animal kingdom. What sound does that animal make? How does it move (creep, fly, gallop, and so on)? Animals can’t talk, but they can communicate. Ask, “How do you think the dog is feeling when she’s wagging her tail?” “What might it mean when a cat rubs against your leg?”
- Read a story featuring animal characters.
- Go for a nature walk! Look around, and listen for animal noises. Even in urban areas, you can find birds, bugs (bees, ants, etc.), and people walking dogs. Use a plastic magnifying glasses to look at bugs up close.
![Printable Julias Community Mural.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-JuliasCommunityMural-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Julia’s Community Mural
There are so many ways to be kind, caring, and helpful in our communities!
![Community Garden Clean-up.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-CommunityGardenCleanUp-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Community Garden Clean-up
Teamwork makes taking care of our communities a little easier.
![Printable Community Connection.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-CommunityConnections-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Community Connections
Showing our love through art is one great way to care for one another.
![Two adults and children are engaging in nature and outdoor activities.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/USSI-PSEG-Article-Community-667x500.jpg)
Engaging Kids with Nature and Community: Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Learning to care for the environment starts with loving the natural world around you.
![Printable Playground Helpers.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-PlaygroundHelpers-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Playground Helpers
Help the Twiddlebugs find their lost materials to build their playground!
![Printable Together Trail.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-TogetherTrail-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Together Trail
Help children practice counting and learn ways to help your community.
![A Grown-up and child helping out in a community garden.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Webinar_LittleNeighbors-667x500.jpg)
Little Neighbors: Fostering Community Connection, Engagement, and Exploration