Compassion in Action

Compassion goes beyond empathy—it includes action to help alleviate suffering.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Champions of Character
• Learning area: Socio-Emotional
• Level: EYFS Reception

Objectives

• Identify suffering in others
• Respond with compassionate action
• Balance self-care with caring for others

Materials

• Compassion scenarios
• Action planning tools

Instructions

Discuss what compassion means: noticing someone is struggling AND wanting to help. Practise identifying need and generating helping responses. Complete compassion actions for classmates and community members.

Educator tip

Help children balance compassion for others with self-care—they can't pour from an empty cup.

Assessment

Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observe compassion identification, action taken, and balance maintained.

More from EYFS Champions of Character

• Environmental Stewardship
• Positive Self-Talk Practice
• Cooperative Game Design
• Boundary Setting
• Media Kindness Critics
• Celebrating Effort Over Outcome
• Conflict Prevention Strategies
• Character Strengths Showcase