Empathy is the ability to understand another person’s emotions and state of mind, and see things from their point of view.1 An important social skill to have, empathy forms a crucial component of a person’s emotional intelligence (EI). The measure of a person’s EI is also known as their emotional quotient, or EQ. Having high EQ levels is a valuable attribute and is associated with many benefits for both children and adults, including better performance in school2 and greater success in life3.
Specifically during the pandemic, empathy in children can help them feel and stay connected – to their friends, family, and other loved ones. Being able to read another person’s emotions and comfort them brings about a sense of calmness4. In other words, having empathy for others can help children regulate their own scary or confusing emotions. By empathizing with the plight of those who may have lost loved ones, or have to work long and tiring hours in hospitals, kids are strengthening their EQ in many ways, while learning to be compassionate and thoughtful.
Ways To Encourage Empathy in Children During the Pandemic
Parents can help their children learn empathy and foster stronger emotional intelligence in them in the following simple ways:1, 5
1. Help them stay connected
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