15 Books That Will Teach Your Kids About Empathy
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Teaching children to grow up to become empathetic adults is probably one of the more important responsibilities of being a parent. And it's even more vital now than ever before due to the unfiltered exposure kids have to things like hate speech, intolerance, and bigotry. Children are like sponges, and in order for them to learn how to become compassionate and understanding human beings, it's essential to nurture their sense of kindness.
A recent study found that college students were 40 percent less empathetic than their counterparts 30 years ago even though social media has made it increasingly easier to connect with others. This, along with an increase in levels of narcissism, makes for an alarming change in the personality traits of younger generations. One of the best ways to teach your child empathy early is through books they will actually enjoy. Keep reading for 15 books that will help your child learn about walking in someone else's shoes.
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Charlotte's Web
A classic in its own right, Charlotte's Web tells the story of a spider named Charlotte and her friendship with a little pig named Wilbur who is in need of a friend.
Appropriate For Ages: 8-12
Click to Buy: Charlotte's Web ($7)
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Hey, Little Ant
A great story that shows how to practice empathy for even the tiniest creatures alive.
Appropriate For Ages: 3-7
Click to Buy: Hey, Little Ant ($15)
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Out of My Mind
Out of My Mind is an eloquent story about protagonist Melody and how she manages fifth grade while living with cerebral palsy.
Appropriate For Ages: 10+
Click to Buy: Out of My Mind ($8)
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Where the Red Fern Grows
Where the Red Fern Grows captures the beauty of the connection a young boy shares with his beloved dogs.
Appropriate For Ages: 8-12
Click to Buy: Where the Red Fern Grows ($8)
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Wonder
This bestseller tells the story of Auggie Pullman, an ordinary child with an extraordinary life.
Appropriate For Ages: 8-12
Click to Buy: Wonder ($11)
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A Sick Day For Amos McGee
This is a touching book about the friendship between zookeeper Amos and the animals he takes care of. When Amos falls sick, his friends elephant, tortoise, penguin, and owl arrive to take care of him.
Appropriate For Ages: 2-6
Click to Buy: A Sick Day For Amos McGee ($13)
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Island of the Blue Dolphins
This timeless classic tells the story of a young girl who lives in isolation on an island for 18 years.
Appropriate For Ages: 7-10
Click to Buy: Island of the Blue Dolphins ($8)
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Brown Girl Dreaming
With beautifully crafted poems about life as an African-American, this is a must read for all kids.
Appropriate For Ages: 10+
Click to Buy: Brown Girl Dreaming ($8)
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The One and Only Ivan
Inspired by actual events, this story is about a gorilla who lives at a mall who wants to find freedom.
Appropriate For Ages: 8-12
Click to Buy: The One and Only Ivan ($8)
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A Hat For Mrs. Goldman
A story about kindness, this book is about Mrs. Goldman and her love of knitting for her neighbors.
Appropriate For Ages: 4-8
Click to Buy: A Hat For Mrs. Goldman ($12)
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The Invisible Boy
An unforgettable story about the power of inclusion and kindness.
Appropriate For Ages: 6-9
Click to Buy: The Invisible Boy ($9)
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Zen Ties
A wonderful tale about compassion and the importance of friendships.
Appropriate For Ages: 4-8
Click to Buy: Zen Ties ($10)
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A Chair For My Mother
After tragedy strikes Rosa's family, they all come together to raise money to buy a chair.
Appropriate For Ages: 4-8
Click to Buy: A Chair For My Mother ($17)
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The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade
The is a story about the smallest girl in class and how even the tiniest act of bravery can change everything.
Appropriate For Ages: 3-5
Click to Buy: The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade ($14)
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The Breadwinner
The story of a young girl named Parvana is captivating, as she is forbidden from attending school in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. When tragedy strikes, Parvana disguises herself as a boy to help support her family.
Appropriate For Ages: 10-14
Click to Buy: The Breadwinner ($10)