Literature and Character Building
How Can Stories Promote Empathy and Compassion?
Literature can be a powerful tool and literary characters have powerful influences for students developing and shaping their moral code. Stories engage our imagination, which allows us to identify with characters and understand their actions. Effective character education, however, must go beyond simply reading humane-themed stories. Students who engage in reflection, discussion, and analysis are more likely to understand and apply values in a positive way.
What other ways can stories be useful?
Literature can also be used to help students deal with issues or problems they will inevitably encounter as they mature and grow. Topics such as dealing with grief, responding to bullying, overcoming fears, developing positive relationships, and appreciating differences are some examples of reoccurring themes in children’s stories. When students engage in these stories, they realize that they are not alone in encountering problems and can learn positive ways of dealing with these issues.
How can AnimalTales help?
The AnimalTales program consists of picture books – beautifully written and illustrated short stories with a powerful message or theme. All books focus on animals or our relationship with them and deal with a variety of issues, including the importance of being kind towards all living things, responsible pet ownership, pet loss, bullying, and much more. The accompanying Teacher’s Guide includes pre-reading activities that prompt students to think about the topics they will encounter, discussion questions to encourage critical thinking of the text, and post reading activities to address the main ideas and themes while incorporating outcomes from the Alberta Education Programs of Study. By sharing and discussing stories with meaningful reflection, we nurture the development of compassion and empathy in a safe environment.
For a closer look at the books included and themes covered in each grade specific package, click the buttons on the side.
Sources:
Brynildssen, S. (2002). Character Education through Children’s Literature. Family Learning Association Bloomington IN. [ED 469 929]
Tu, W. (1999). Using Literature to Help Children Cope with Problems. ERIC Clearinghouse on Reading English and Communication Bloomington IN. [ED 436 008]
