What are the benefits of parents cultivating empathy in their children?

When educating young children, many aspects need to be taken into consideration, and empathy is one of them. Children with empathy are considerate and more likely to be grateful. So how can parents cultivate empathy in their children? What are the benefits of cultivating empathy in children?

How to cultivate empathy in children

Teach your child about emotions: If your child doesn’t know how to describe his or her own emotions, he or she won’t be able to sympathize with others. Appropriately point out the emotions you see in your child, such as “You’re nervous because you can’t find your mom,” so that your child understands what they mean.

Read stories together: Even the simplest stories can teach children about empathy. Don't just read, but discuss with your child the feelings of the main character as the story unfolds, such as "Xiao Ming has no friends to play with him, so he feels sad."

Discuss conflicts with children: When children are quarreling, they must not discuss their feelings. Wait until they are separated and calm, and discuss everyone's feelings with them. This can help children express their emotions and understand the feelings of others.

Show your conflict: Almost everyone has had times when they argue in front of their kids, but you should avoid doing so. If you accidentally let your kids see you, then take the opportunity to educate them and show them how you resolve conflicts, so that they know how to deal with conflicts.

Talk to animals: Let your child try to talk and interact with animals, such as asking him if he thinks the dog is hungry or tired. This will allow children to learn to observe and find ways to understand the other person's feelings.

The benefits of cultivating empathy in children

Compassion is one of the elements that constitute a perfect personality and good character. It is of great significance to the healthy development of children's personality, especially the development of emotions, and is an important foundation for children to establish good interpersonal relationships.

Compassionate children are generally kind-hearted, gentle and lovable; children who lack compassion tend to have strange temperaments, easily go to extremes, find it difficult to get close to others, and their interpersonal relationships may also be in crisis.

Most children nowadays are spoiled and used to being self-centered. It is difficult for them to put themselves in other people’s shoes and consider them, and they are unable to empathize with other people’s pain.

The generation of compassion requires natural imitation and subtle penetration. It is a process from the outside to the inside, from quantitative change to qualitative change.

Things to note when educating your child

Try to avoid corporal punishment: No matter what mistakes your child makes, it is best not to use corporal punishment, because this will make your child think that violence can solve problems and is also the best way to make others obedient.

Set basic rules: Set some basic rules, such as saying hello to people and putting things away after use. This will let your child know the principles of doing things and help him motivate himself not to make mistakes.

Regular interaction time: Whether it is watching TV or having dinner together, arrange some time to interact with your children. Through these interactions, you can understand your children better, your children can also have a window to rely on, and it can also enhance the relationship between you.

Lead by example: Whatever you ask of your children, you should do it first. You and your partner are your children's primary role models. They watch your every word, action, and move, so you should lead by example first.