Today is the launch of Empathy Day from Empathy Lab, a project which aims  to emphasize the importance of empathy in our divided world, a...

Empathy - Everybody's Welcome

Tuesday, June 13, 2017 BookBairn 10 Comments


Today is the launch of Empathy Day from Empathy Lab, a project which aims to emphasize the importance of empathy in our divided world, and raise awareness of the power of stories to develop it. Thanks to the lovely Book Lover Jo for introducing me to this special and important day in her recent blog post 'Picture Books for Empathy Day'.

Picture books are a great way to discuss and gently introduce the concept of empathy for the actively encourage us to step into another person's world and into their shoes. They teach us to see the world from different perspectives, to appreciate the experiences of others and to really look at other people and their lives without judgement and with respect.

With all that is happening in our world, many parents are looking for ways to explain to their young children that they can be a force for good through difficult times. 'Everybody's Welcome' by Patricia Hegart and Greg Abbott promotes the ideals of refuge, inclusivity and friendship at a level even the littlest readers will understand. Mouse is building a house in the middle of the wood. When Frog's pond dries up and he has no where to live, Mouse suggests that they build a home together:

"Everybody's welcome,
no matter who they are, 
Wherever they may come from,
whether near or far."

And so becomes the mission of these woodland friends. Rabbits scared off by an eagle: welcome. Lonely Bear who scares off any friends: welcome. Foxes, badgers, squirrels, hedgehogs, moles, owl, birds: all welcome. If everyone lends a hand they can all build a home that will house everyone.

It's not hard to see the parallels to our society. If we all chip in and contribute we can make a society that helps and suits us all. A simple message but one that I really want BookBairn and The Wee Page Turner to hold in their hearts. There is enough room for everyone and if we all help each other we can live a happy life side by side.

"Our home will be so happy -
we'll fill it up with song,
And everybody in it
will feel that they belong."

Accompanied by beautiful illustrations that BookBairn loves to pour over, spotting all her favourite creatures, this magical book really teaches little ones about acceptance, generosity and to empathise with others.

Wouldn't it be nice if our society had a leader like mouse? That empathises with others and opens its doors to everyone? That's a world I want my children to grow up in. 

In our house, everybody's welcome! Feel free to pop over for a story any time!

Love Mummy, BookBairn and The Wee Page Turner xxx


You can find out more about Empathy Day and Empathy Lab you can by visit the website for more information including a special selection of book recommendations. If you have any books that you would like to recommend head over to Twitter and share them using the hashtag #ReadForEmpathy

*DISCLAIMER* I was given our book for free for review purposes, however, all words and opinions are my own.
After saying to Daddy she wanted to be a book
blogger, BookBairn took this photo of me with
the book. I feel she has it easier because her model
sat still!


10 comments:

  1. What a great theme and what a great book to introduce it to young readers. Also great pics of a happy, smiley BookBairn.

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    1. Thanks! She's back to being her smiley cheeky self!

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  2. This gorgeous, gorgeous book is on our review pile too. Thank you for the invitation to come and read stories with you :o)

    #ReadWithMe

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    1. You're welcome anytimr Catherine! Isn't it a beauty?

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  3. As with the title this book looks ever so welcoming! Thank you for sharing with #readwithme

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    1. A great book for sharing values with little readers!

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  4. What a gorgeous book with such an important message too. We'd love to come for a story at your house although I'm not sure I'd be able to leave that lovely reading neuk! #readwithme

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