What is empathy?

Empathy is being able to know how someone else is feeling, even when you aren't in the same situation. Sometimes we call empathy being able to "put yourself in someone's shoes" and see things from their view. 

Empathy has two parts, shared emotion and seeing other perspectives. Both parts of empathy are ways in which we make the effort to understand other people and share an emotion with them. 

Why is empathy important?

Empathy is the first step in having positive relationships because it helps us understand and relate to others.

When we struggle with difficult emotions (like anxiety, grief, sadness, anger, or frustration) we often feel that no one else understands. We feel alone in our feelings. By experiencing empathy from another person, we feel validated, understood, and connected. This provides a safe space to regulate our emotions.

Explores the resources below to help you practice empathy with your student.

• Information & strategies for application with your student

• 9 Ways to Show Empathy When Your Child is Struggling