Monday, April 20, 2009

Children and Empathy


After the Good Friday tornados, we went to see some of the damage. When we were just looking at businesses, the kids were all excited and talking. When we drove into the residential neighborhoods, Emma said "Cara is not talking" (cara never stops talking so it is strange if she stops). I turned around and Cara's eyes were filled with tears. We were passing the home where a mother and baby died. Cara was feeling sadness for them and all of the other people whose homes were so visibly distroyed. She was taking it all in and it was too much for her. Cara is 5.

Children are very empathetic. I am going to encourage my kids to feel the empathy for others. It is okay and an amazing gift.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Christy, Cara is such a sweet hearted girl. I was moved by what you wrote and how she was taking it all in. It is important that our children have empathy for others. You are right, that it is okay and a wonderful gift!!! Thanks for sharing this!!

love,
Tracy