REALITY CHECK: Empathy is the moral virtue that helps children “identify with and feel other people’s concerns.” When they do, they are more likely to reach out and respond in more caring, compassionate ways to others. Unlike genetics or appearance or most temperaments, empathy can be cultivated, and research shows that our infants are already [...]

Parenting advice to encourage kids to lend a hand, do service, and make the world a kinder place The TODAY Show asked me to share parenting advice that will encourage kids to catch that glorious “Volunteer Spirit.” I’ll share more tips this Friday, December 3 during the 8 am hour on TODAY. You’ll also meet [...]

Children are hard-wired for empathy, but unless it is nurtured the trait may lie dormant. Here is parenting advice based on research that nurture our children’s empathy. Several years ago, our youngest son brought a note home from his teacher asking for parent volunteers to chaperone a class field trip. His teacher, Cindy Hollinger, was [...]

Moral IQ Tip: Children are likely to be more empathic if they understand why empathy is important and how it affects others. So point out the positive impact empathy can have on others in daily experiences. One strong characteristic of morally intelligent children is that they are empathic. These kids can identify with and feel [...]