Empathy is about understanding and connecting to other people’s feelings. It’s like putting yourself in someone else’s shoes to understand how they feel. When we take small moments to connect with others—whether it’s offering a kind word or helping a friend—it’s like starting a snowball rolling down a hill. These small acts can grow into something bigger and more meaningful over time!
In your classroom, showing empathy helps create a safe and caring place where everyone feels included, respected, and valued. It fosters an environment where students are encouraged to express themselves openly and support one another, leading to stronger relationships and a more harmonious community.
Here are some fun ways to grow our empathy “snowball” and build a classroom full of kindness!
Entry Tasks (5-10 minutes daily)
Start each day with a reflection. Try these prompts:
Connect Game (5-10 minutes)
Play “Empathy Circle.” Each student shares a feeling they’ve had (like happy, sad, or worried), and everyone who has felt the same way steps into the circle. This game helps us see that we’re not alone in our emotions.
“To the Person Who” Prompts (5-10 minutes)
Write or draw letters to acknowledge someone who has made you feel happy, safe, or loved. Here are some starters:
Empathy Snowball Effect Lesson (30 minutes)
Learn how small acts of empathy can grow into something big. Engage students with an in-classroom “snowball toss” that facilitates an anonymous and meaningful perspective-taking opportunity. Students will practice empathy and curiosity using other students’ responses.
Blizzard BINGO Challenge (1 week)
Complete a BINGO card full of empathy-related challenges! Download the Blizzard Bingo Card.
The Big Picture
Let’s think about this together. Here are some discussion questions to reflect on:
Access these empathy activities here!
By thinking about these questions, we can start to see how important empathy is in making others feel understood and valued.
Empathy starts small, but like a snowball rolling downhill, it grows. When we take small moments to show we care, we make our classroom and school a kinder, happier place. So, how will you grow your empathy snowball today?