Choosing Respect Over Regret in an Empathy Guide for Children

Kindergarten is a critical stage in a child's development, where they learn essential social skills and values that will shape their future interactions. Teaching respect during this formative period is vital because it sets the tone for their understanding of how to treat others and be treated in return.

Respect is a positive action that values a person or a group's rights. It demonstrates consideration, courtesy, and esteem toward others. For instance, saying "Please" when asking for a favor is an act of respect. Another way to demonstrate it is by listening intently to the teacher leading a class discussion.

This effective SEL lesson aims to instill a respectful attitude in kindergarten students. By grasping the concept of respect and why it matters, students can grow into respectful adults equipped with an invaluable tool for building strong, compassionate relationships.

A fun and engaging audio story titled "The Long and Short of Friendship" opens this lesson, bringing kindergartners back to the exciting Getting Along with Others Island. In this story, students follow their beloved jungle and forest animal characters who meet for the first time.

One early morning, while the rest of the jungle animals are still asleep, Jareef Giraffe walks to nibble a little breakfast from the top of the trees. On the other side of the island, Abbott Rabbit and Cindy Squirrel of the forest also get up early to explore. As they wander, they suddenly encounter Jareef from the jungle. At first, they think of Jareef as a monster, for they have never seen an animal taller than the trees with a long neck similar to a snake. The forest animals feel so scared.

Later, Jareef notices the small and frightened rabbit and squirrel. She apologizes for scaring them, and her respectful behavior toward Abbott and Cindy washes away their fear of the giraffe. They introduce themselves to each other and talk about their adventures and daily activities. As they part, they promise to get all of their friends together and get them acquainted. On their way back, Abbott Rabbit and Cindy Squirrel reflect on their morning and learn something crucial.

This lesson defines respect as "Seeing the good in others." The story illustrates this concept through the actions of Jareef Giraffe toward Abbott and Cindy. Jareef demonstrates empathy and respect by apologizing for unintentionally frightening the rabbit and squirrel. The kindergarten class discusses this further after the storytelling, deepening their understanding and reinforcing the concepts.

A creative SEL activity ends the lesson. Students complete their fun connect-the-dots and coloring activity sheets that can help them retain what they have learned.

Overall, teaching kindergartners respect equips them with essential life skills necessary for personal growth and behavior improvement. Kindergartners can initiate healthy interactions, build meaningful relationships, and avoid conflicts. They also develop into individuals who embody compassion, empathy, and responsibility.