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Compassion is commonly defined as “a sympathetic awareness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it” (Compassion Definition & Meaning, 2025). However, compassion goes beyond a simple feeling; it is a way of seeing others and a conscious commitment to act with care. In our Grange Profile, compassion is closely connected to empathy and is understood as a cognitive and emotional capacity that enables individuals to place themselves in another’s position and understand their feelings. It supports the development of healthy, balanced, and positive relationships. As psychologist Kristin Neff (2011) explains, “Compassion involves noticing suffering, feeling emotionally moved by it and responding with care rather than avoidance or blame.”
Compassion is at the heart of emotional well-being and social connection. It invites us to notice pain without judgment and to respond with understanding and action. When we practise compassion, we strengthen empathy, resilience, and moral courage.
The Dalai Lama (2015) also emphasises that compassion is not optional but essential: “If you want others to be happy, practise compassion. If you want to be happy, practise compassion.” In this sense, compassion benefits both the giver and the receiver, nurturing healthier individuals and more caring communities.
Forms of Compassion
Researchers often distinguish between different but interconnected forms of compassion (Gilbert, 2014):
Self-compassion
Self-compassion means treating ourselves with the same kindness we would offer a friend, especially in moments of failure or difficulty. It involves recognising that mistakes are part of being human and responding with patience rather than harsh self-criticism.Compassion for others
This form of compassion focuses on recognising the suffering of others and responding with empathy, respect, and helpful action. It encourages us to stand up for others, offer support, and act with fairness.Compassion for the community and the world
Compassion also extends beyond individuals to include care for the wider community, vulnerable groups, animals, and the environment. It invites responsibility and active participation in creating a more just and caring society.
Together, these dimensions support us in developing emotional intelligence, ethical awareness, and a strong sense of shared humanity.
Compassion at Home and at School
Like respect and empathy, compassion is learned through experience, modelling, and practice. Children observe how adults respond to mistakes, frustration, and suffering. As researcher Brené Brown (2018) reminds us, “Compassion begins with understanding that we are all made of strength and struggle.”
By nurturing compassion in children, we help them grow into emotionally secure, socially responsible, and engaged citizens who contribute positively to their communities.
How We Can Help Children Develop Compassion
Model compassionate behaviour
Children learn compassion by watching adults respond to stress, conflict and mistakes. Show kindness toward yourself and others, apologise when needed and offer help freely.Name and validate emotions
Help children recognise feelings in themselves and others: “You seem frustrated” or “That looks really hard.” Emotional awareness is the foundation of compassion.Encourage helping actions
Small acts —sharing, comforting a friend, helping at home— teach children that compassion is something we do, not just something we feel.Talk about fairness and kindness
Discuss real-life situations, stories or news in age-appropriate ways. Ask how others might feel and what compassionate responses could look like.Practise self-compassion
Teach children that being kind to themselves matters too. Mistakes are opportunities to learn, not reasons for shame.
Conversation Starters
“How do you know when someone is feeling sad or upset?”
“What could we do to help someone who is having a hard day?”
“How can we be kinder to ourselves?”
“Have you ever received compassion from someone? How did it feel?”
Top Five Ideas
Model compassion daily. Show patience, understanding, and care in your interactions.
Teach children to notice feelings. Awareness is the first step toward compassionate action.
Encourage kindness in action. Help children turn caring thoughts into helpful behaviour.
Normalise mistakes. Use errors as learning moments, responding with guidance rather than shame.
Extend compassion outward. Foster care for the community, vulnerable people, and the environment.
Other resources to listen to and watch:
Movie Wonder (2017)
Available on different platforms.
A short video that explores empathy, inclusion, and how to build positive friendships — excellent for teenagers and social skills classes.
A compilation of short clips recommended for educators that reinforce the importance of kindness and human connection.
Tips on how to raise compassionate children by allowing them to have a voice and a sense of belonging.
Reflection on compassion as a community and humanising practice.
Bibliography
Brown, B. (2018). Dare to Lead. New York: Random House.
Dalai Lama. (2015). The Art of Happiness. New York: Riverhead Books.
Gilbert, P. (2014). The Compassionate Mind. London: Constable & Robinson.
Hooks, b. (2000). All About Love: New Visions. New York: HarperCollins.
Neff, K. (2011). Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself. New York: William Morrow.
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