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How to Teach Kids Empathy Through Technology

Empathy is the ability to be able to put oneself into another person's situation to better understand his thoughts and feelings. This trait enables an individual to compassionately respond to another individual in a caring way. It is also an important skill for children to learn because it affects their emotional intelligence, social performance and moral development. Children who learn empathy also tend to do better in school academically, which can lead to greater opportunities in the future.

Things You'll Need

  • Computers
  • Video games
  • DVDs
  • Printer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Watch DVDs that teach about empathy, such as "How Would You Feel?" and "Got Empathy?" These DVDs model situations where children put themselves into another person's shoes to attempt to understand how the other person is feeling. This type of technology can be a great stepping-stone into a discussion about the meaning of empathy.

    • 2

      Play video games that emphasize empathy. Try games that are focused around social worlds, such as Second Life and Super Mario Brothers, to bring the empathic element into the picture. Another aspect of playing video games is allowing children the opportunity to take turns, which teaches them empathy skills as well. Games should not be played to excess, however, and a discussion should follow about what the children learned by playing the games.

    • 3

      Use the computer to have the children find examples of empathy on the Internet. Once the children have had adequate time to find examples, discuss the reasons why they chose their examples.

    • 4

      Print empathy handouts to give to the children. There are many activities available to help teach children about empathy. The Kid's Health website, kidshealth.org, has a number of activities suited for children of various ages.

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