Empathy

Book List

Knowing a Poem

The Little Things
By Margaret Lindsey

The little things are most worthwhile 
A quiet word, a look, a smile, 
A listening ear that’s quick to share 
Another’s thoughts, another’s care… 
Though sometimes they may seem quite small, 
These little things mean most of all.

What little things mean the most to you?

What, Why, Wonder

You, Me and Empathy By Jayneen Sanders

One of the most important social skills a child can learn is empathy. Being able to understand how another person is feeling and recognizing their needs helps people to connect to one another across race, culture and the diversity that is ever-present and so important to our world. This charming story uses verse, beautiful illustrations and a little person called Quinn to model the meaning of empathy. Throughout the story, Quinn shows an abundance of understanding, compassion and kindness towards others. Showing empathy towards others is a learnt trait, and one to nurture and cherish with the children in our care.

5 Books we love

Daddy’s nose is red. His eyes are sleepy. How can we make him feel better? Part of the Bright Start series, Feel Better, Daddy introduces and helps develop the idea of empathy for children aged 1–3. A big pot of ‘soup’, a beautiful drawing, a snuggle – a girl explores the different ways she can show empathy when her daddy is sick.
Ned the hamster has been in training for the Great Garden Hamster Race but when race day arrives, the route is cluttered with critters in need of help. Will he realise that a few small acts of kindness are more important than winning at any cost? This positive picture book from author/illustrator Kim Hillyard will inspire all readers big and small to look up and offer help to those who might need it.
With its spare, poignant text and irresistibly sweet illustrations, The Rabbit Listened is a tender meditation on loss. When something terrible happens, Taylor doesn’t know where to turn. All the animals are sure they have the answer. Then the rabbit arrives. All the rabbit does is listen, which is just what Taylor needs. Whether read in the wake of tragedy or as a primer for comforting others, this is a deeply moving and unforgettable story sure to soothe heartache of all sizes.
Sally McBrass is the smallest girl in the youngest class – but Sally knows you don’t have to be big to be strong. From kites stuck up trees to howling dogs to stray cats in the car park, little Sally notices things that others don’t, and when she sees people being mean at school, she is brave enough to speak up. The Smallest Girl in the Class by Justin Roberts and Christian Robinson is a moving and gorgeously illustrated story about bravery and changing the world for the better. The perfect book to build empathy and start discussions about kindness with young children.
In this beautiful new edition of a timeless picture book classic, a child asks, “Will it be okay?” That bee sting, that thunderstorm, those powerful feelings, losing a loved one. Will It Be Okay? answers a timeless and universal question with honesty, humanity, beauty, and humor. Will it be okay? Yes—yes, it will.

Contacts

Ali Carrington, Early Years Consultant

Anna Morgan, Early Years Consultant

Website by Passion Fruit | All content © Bristol Early Years 2023 | Privacy Policy |  Cookies Notice