Try it Together Tuesday: Black Lives Matter on Empathy
February 2, 2021, Katie Sobolewski
It’s time for another “Try it Together Tuesday,” where we share new ideas on ways to interact with your Little! In honor of Black History Month, we’ll be posting weekly conversation starters and activities from the Black Lives Matter 13 Guiding Principles.
Today’s activity focuses on empathy, defined as one’s ability to connect with others by building relationships built on mutual trust and understanding. The Black Lives Matter guiding principle on empathy commits to “practicing empathy; we engage comrades with the intent to learn about and connect with their contexts.”
Discussion topics:
Why do you think it’s important to be empathetic?
Provide an example of when you demonstrated empathy.
What problems could occur if we aren’t empathetic with each other?
Activity:
Black Lives Matter at School created activity booklets for younger and older children to encourage reflection and lift up black voices. Review the empathy section with your child or Littles and learn more together.
Cultural awareness training:
Conversations about race can be difficult. Mentors are encouraged to educate themselves before initiating a conversation with their Little. This 30-minute training by Youth Mentoring Action Network is a good place to start!
Don’t forget to post (with your Little’s parent or guardian’s permission) on our Facebook or Instagram pages and use the hashtag #KeepKidsConnected to share all the fun you’re having!
