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 [...]

Being fair and kind can be cultivated in our children. I’m in Cincinnati at the invitation of the Summit Day Country School to speak with teachers and parents about how to raise goodness in our children. This week I had spoke with Krista Ramsey, education reporter for Cincinnati News.com. Here is her report published in [...]

Parenting advice to nurture our children’s empathy and compassion. Several years ago, our youngest son brought home a note from his teacher asking for parent volunteers to chaperone a class field trip. His teacher, Cindy Hollinger, was encouraging her students to give up their Saturday morning to participate in a race called “Lauren’s Run” sponsored [...]

Proven tips to nurture compassion children and reduce peer cruelty Last fall I was on the East Coast helping a small school district implement a character education program. My first meeting was with a district administrator to assess the students’ needs, and the discussion has haunted me ever since. I began by inquiring about the [...]

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 [...]