August 12, 2016
Teaching Empathy to My Daughter

Dr.Laura:

My husband and I found a way to teach our 5-year-old daughter the basics of empathy. We sponsored a girl in Rwanda who was born the same month and year as our daughter.  Our daughter sent small notes, drawings and photos to the girl and got the same back.  That's when the questions started:  "that isn't what a house looks like - why is it made out of sticks, and why is their floor dirt?"  "Does she go to school?  What does she eat?"

The questions led to great conversations about how much of the world lives and how we can be of help to this girl and her family.  A few times a year, we buy clothes, soap, toothbrushes and other staples.  Since we've started doing this, I've seen my daughter grow as she's learning how to be humble, have concern for others and be empathetic.  I recommend this for families with small children, because it's a wonderful teaching tool, and these families really do get some additional help they need.

Anne


Posted by Staff at 10:59 AM