Core Skill in Focus: Empathy
What is empathy?
Empathy is setting aside judgement and preconceived notions in order to truly understand another person, especially in a moment of need. It’s not about solving a problem or fixing emotions. It’s about noticing them, sitting with them, and saying (sometimes with words, sometimes not): “I get it. I’m here.” Empathy invites us to be gentle, to be curious, and to tune in a little more closely. And while it sounds simple, it can be really, really hard. Especially when emotions are big or unfamiliar. Especially when we’re busy. Especially when we’re tired. (Which, let’s be honest, is often.)
How do we use it in theatre?
Empathy is the quiet engine that powers everything we do on stage. To portray a character truthfully, we have to try to understand them—fully and without judgment. Even if they make choices we wouldn’t. Even if they’re wildly different from us. That means asking: What are they feeling? What do they want? Why do they behave this way? And then we don’t just think about those answers—we show them and invite our audience along for the ride. Theatre asks us to walk in someone else’s shoes for a while. And if we do it well, the audience walks with us.
Why is it important in life?
Empathy isn’t just about being a good friend—it’s a practical tool for navigating everyday situations. It helps us communicate more clearly, manage conflict more effectively, and work better in teams. It allows us to anticipate needs, read the room, and respond in ways that keep things moving forward rather than escalating. At school, at work, and at home, people who practice empathy tend to build stronger relationships and avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
How can I bring this skill home?
You don’t need a deep heart-to-heart every night to teach empathy (though those are great, too). Often, empathy grows in small, simple moments—when we make space for emotions, ask thoughtful questions, or playfully imagine someone else’s world. Here are a few easy ways to try:
Tots and Pre-K: Play “Feelings Charades.” Take turns showing emotions with just your face or body—no words allowed—and guess what each person is feeling. It’s silly, quick, and builds emotional awareness.
Elementary School: Ask “How would you feel if…?” throughout your day. How would you feel if your teacher forgot your name? If your friend got picked first? If your sibling had a tough day? These quick chats help kids get used to considering other perspectives. Try to keep their focus on what they would feel in the moment, instead of the action they would take. Remember, empathy is about understanding - not solving.
Middle School: The next time you are sitting in a public place together (at dinner, bus stop, the park), identify a pair of people and encourage you student to come up with their backstory: who are they, how do they know each other, where are they coming from, etc. See if the backstory can match their body language and other things you notice about them.
High School: The New York Times has a wonderful segment for teens, where they provide a photo without a caption and encourage students to imagine what is going on in the picture. It is used in many classrooms and is a great springboard for empathetic conversation.
