Each month, this series introduces fun and impactful healthy habits to help families with kids and teens prioritize physical, mental and spiritual well being – fostering a lifestyle of shared growth and lifelong wellness. Healthy habits built together are the ones that last a lifetime.

Division feels a lot louder than connection in 2026 which is why the most important thing you can do as parents and caregivers is intentionally teach your children the importance of empathy. 

Whether it’s media coverage of current events, social media posts or even overhearing conversations, there’s too much “us versus them” mentality happening. Even when kids are too young to fully grasp the complexity of the temperament of the world around them, empathy can give them the tools and strength to make their own impact in the world. 

Why Empathy Matters Even in Kids

The world needs more compassion, kindness and understanding. Children need to learn how to have empathy for people within their family, but even more so, people outside of themselves. Teach them how to accept and acknowledge those who look and think differently than themselves that go beyond their inner circle! A longitudinal study published in Child Development found that, “children who showed empathy and helpful behaviors early in life were more likely to have positive social outcomes in adulthood, including better peer relationships and emotional well being.” Who doesn’t want their children to grow up with stronger communication skills, higher emotional intelligence and healthier relationships? 

How to Nurture Empathy at Home

The goal is to actively and intentionally add in examples and lessons of empathy without overwhelming your kids or yourself! Don’t feel pressured to give big speeches or suddenly feel the stress of being a perfect parent in front of your child. It’s about consistently showing them everyday opportunities to practice seeing the world through someone else’s eyes and understand a bit better. 

Simple Ways to Get Started

Here are a few age-appropriate ideas on how to build empathy as a family: 

#1 Practice Seeing Other Perspectives 

Encourage siblings or cousins to hear each other out during disagreements. Simply asking questions like, “I see why you felt that way,” or “Help me understand your side” can model how we try to understand the other person. Help kids learn that other people’s feelings matter as do theirs, so they can try to relate to others. 

#2 Name and Normalize Feelings 

A simple opportunity to teach empathy is choosing to read books or watch TV shows and movies where you can talk together about what happened. Ask them how they think the character felt in specific situations and help them become more aware of others’ emotions. 

#3 Embrace Their Curiosity 

Everyone knows how naturally curious kids are from the time they are toddlers! Allow them to ask questions about people without shutting them down out of awkwardness or judgment. Use questions about why someone looks a certain way or lives differently than your family to open up conversation and make it a teaching moment! Help their empathy grow by letting them learn to not be afraid of unfamiliar things but stay curious and ask respectful questions. 

Creating Practices That Last a Lifetime

Remember that your kids are watching! The most effective way to build empathy is to model it and let them observe along the way. It’s not about pretending differences don’t exist, but rather, teaching them to have open hearts and minds. As you practice ways to have conversations and share examples of empathy, your child will naturally extend it outward in their home, classroom, friend groups and more.