And now a word from
Mrs Richards...
Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It helps children build strong relationships, resolve conflicts peacefully, and develop compassion.
Empathy is not just about being kind; it’s about understanding diverse perspectives, recognizing emotions in others, and responding appropriately.
Our Wellbeing lessons explicitly teach students how to recognize and manage their own emotions, understand others' emotions, and build strong, healthy relationships. The Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships program provides a structured approach to developing empathy and other essential life skills. The Victorian Curriculum provides a structure for teachers to assess students’ abilities through the Personal and Social capabilities. We also foster empathy through programs which involve older students supporting younger students such as through our Buddy Program, lunchtime clubs, and Peer Support program. Not only do these programs help the younger students feel supported but it also teaches the older students the value of compassion and leadership.
When students are taught to understand and respect the feelings of others, they contribute to a culture of kindness and acceptance, making schools safer and more welcoming for everyone.
Why teaching empathy in your child is important
Initially, most children believe that their world and everyone in it revolves around them. “I want” is their mantra. There is a very egocentric phase of early childhood. Through socialisation we can gently remind them to think of things from others’ perspectives and to think about how their behaviour affects others.
- Model empathetic behaviour. Be kind even though the behaviour of someone else might be difficult.
- Read fiction stories to kids or encourage them to read fiction. Take time to discuss the feeling, emotions and actions in these stories. People who read fiction score highest on tests that ask them to infer other people’s thoughts and emotions.
- Praise kind and compassionate behaviours.
- Validate your child’s feelings. When a child shares difficult stories or emotions let them know you understand, without immediately offering solutions or advice.
- Invite your child to walk in someone else’s shoes. Ask them to consider how another person is feeling.