Empathy Eyes

Empathy develops when children practise perspective-taking—considering what others might be thinking, feeling, and needing based on situational cues.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Introduce 'Empathy Eyes'—special glasses that help us see how others are feeling! Show prop glasses (can be made from paper) and explain: 'When we put on Empathy Eyes, we look at people and try to understand how THEY feel.'

Practise with feelings photos: show a photo of a child looking sad, happy, frustrated, scared, etc. Ask: 'What do you think this person is feeling? What makes you think that? What might have happened?'

Progress to scenario cards: 'A child's balloon just flew away.' Put on Empathy Eyes and ask: 'How might they feel? What might they be thinking?' Discuss multiple possibilities.

Practise responding with empathy: 'Once we know how someone feels, we can respond! What could we say or do to help?' Generate empathetic responses: 'That looks frustrating.' 'Do you need a hug?' 'Can I help?'

Transfer to classroom life: when a child is upset, put on Empathy Eyes together: 'Let's use Empathy Eyes. What do you think Jamie is feeling? What might help?'

Create an Empathy Eyes station where children can practise perspective-taking independently with photos and scenario cards.

Educator tip

Don't correct children's guesses about feelings—there are multiple valid interpretations. The practise of considering others' perspectives is more important than getting the 'right' answer.

Assessment

Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe perspective-taking attempts, accuracy in identifying emotions, and empathetic responses to peers' feelings.

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