Definition:

The ability to feel what others are feeling and the action of trying to help them with their troubles. 

In short: 

Feel what others feel.

Summary:
Students will enjoy this narrative poem about empathy. The narrator shares lots of examples about noticing what others are feeling and what to do to help them. Main message: everyone has times when life is difficult, and because “we’re all on the same side,” we should be willing to try to understand. Don’t hesitate to show that you care!  

Lesson Objectives: 

1. Students are more willing and able to practice empathy towards others. 

Guiding Questions: 

1. “Sometimes you feel just like me.” Have you noticed that other people have some of the same situations and feelings as you? Can you give an example? 
2. How are you the same as a sibling or a friend? 
3. How are you different from that person? 
4. What makes you happy? What makes you sad? What makes you worried? What makes you mad? 
5. Do you think moms and dads need hugs and kind words from you sometimes? Can you remember a time when you gave them a hug because they needed one? Why did they need a hug?  
6. If you get hurt, how would you like someone to help you?
7. Did you ever ask someone who was alone to play with you? What happened? 
8. Do you remember a time when you were afraid of something, like the girl who was scared to go down the slide, and now you’re no longer afraid? What helped you? 
9. The bully in the story was sad when he was bullied. How did that help him stop bullying? 
10. If you see someone today who’s obviously upset and needs a friend to talk to, let them know you’d like to help.