We live in a time when empathy is not only lacking but on the decline. Kids are bullied because of the color of their skin, religion, culture, a disability and more. Bullying and cyberbullying are increasing, especially for black and brown kids, LGBT youth, and Jewish and Muslim youth. Fueled by decreases in respect, kindness, and compassion, the house is on fire! Empathy may be not be a cure-all, but just a little effort can transform a child into a more sensitive, caring human being. The good news is that empathy - the ability to "walk in someone else's shoes" - can be taught. This book is all about teaching adults to teach empathy to kids. The payoff will last a lifetime. In this helpful guide, parents, caregivers and teachers are coached to help their children and students to develop social-emotional skills that will equip them to better navigate the world with self-compassion and empathetic concern. The Empathy Advantage is for the busiest parents and educators. It provides tips, strategies, online resources, and activities that are fun and engaging and take just 10 to 20 minutes. It emphasizes the importance of starting early, being good role models, spending quality face-to-face time together, and more. It will help readers understand the dynamics of bullying and teach children to stand up not only for themselves but others. And it explores other topics including managing media in the home, the value of pets in inculcating empathy, active listening, and self-compassion - i.e. being as forgiving and kind to yourself as you would to a friend.

Lynne Azarchi was Executive Director of Kidsbridge Youth Center outside of Trenton, New Jersey-a nonprofit organization for 21 years dedicated to fostering bullying prevention, anti-bias, empathy, empowerment, and UPstanders. Lynne has won numerous awards for community service and has had essays published in local newspapers and academic journals. She was inducted into the New Jersey Women's Hall of Fame in 2012. Lynne frequently speaks at professional gatherings, including the New Jersey Education Association, the New Jersey School Counselors Association, Educational Testing Service, and the New Jersey Afterschool Conference, as well as many faith-based groups. She is the author of The Empathy Advantage: Coaching Children to Be Kind, Respectful, and Successful.