Seeing and Understanding Empathy

What You Need:

• "We Are Built To Be Kind" video on YouTube
• Reaching Out worksheet

What You Do:

1. Ask your child if they think that people are born kind.
2. Ask them how it feels when someone understands them and their feelings, and how it feels when they receive kindness.
3. Next, ask, "How does it feel when you share kindness with others and are understanding of them?"
4. Have your child share an example from their life when they shared kindness and understanding for someone else.
5. Explain that people are born to connect with other people—it's human nature! When we see someone who may be hurt, a region in our brain lights up and help us understand how this person may feel.
6. Show the "We Are Built To Be Kind" video.
   1. Pause periodically to ask comprehension questions, such as: How are we wired for kindness and empathy? What happens to the brain when we practice kindness? What did scientists find in the brains of people who saw images of others experiencing sadness or struggle?
   2. Feel free to watch the video more than once if you think it's necessary.
7. After finishing the video, ask your child what stood out to them.
8. Ask them what it means to have empathy.
9. Explain that when we practice having empathy and showing kindness, we can strengthen these skills in ourselves.
10. Ask your child what would happen if everyone shared kindness, generosity, and empathy towards others. How would this impact families and communities?
11. Review the instructions on the Reaching Out worksheet.
12. Work with your child to complete the worksheet's activity.