The Empathy Project is excited to announce a new workshop series designed to cultivate compassion in young hearts.

We're joining forces with Gen Earth to launch a groundbreaking initiative designed to nurture a heartfelt connection between young people and the animals they share the world with.

Through gentle storytelling, powerful short videos and open, guided discussions, children will be invited to step into the experiences of animals - to imagine their emotions, struggles and joys and to spark moments when they realize, “hey, they’re just like me!”

This isn't just about learning facts. Instead, it's about bringing empathy to life by encouraging students to see animals as sentient beings, with their own personalities, feelings and needs.

“Studies repeatedly show real benefits to children who share bonds with animals. Spending time with animals strengthens perspective-taking and kindness while reducing stress and anxiety,” writes Empathy Project founder, Bel Jacobs, in the article Disappearing Kinship: How Growing Up Teaches Children to see Animals as 'Other'.

“Successfully caring for an animal can make a child feel capable and valued. Kids who love animals are more socially competent and confident; showing a stronger affinity for nature, greater empathy towards their peers and, in another study, a greater willingness to enter pro-social and pro-environmental professions.”

Together, we're planting seeds of empathy that will bloom into a more compassionate communities, healthier environment, and brighter futures for all beings.

How the course will be framed

The workshops will be delivered in partnership with Gen Earth, a social enterprise with extensive experience in developing and implementing engaging climate programmes for young people.

Each child will choose a species to learn about, discovering inspiring reasons to care for and protect them - from whales, the “teachers of the ocean,” to everyday creatures they may encounter in their own lives. Sensitive topics, such as farmed animals, will be explored thoughtfully and with care.

The workshops culminate in a creative opportunity where students envision and create a kinder world for all living beings through art and craft. Space will be given for each voice to reflect on what compassion looks like in action; practical projects to nurture animals in their family and school communities will be explored and brought to life.

What we would like to see in the future

Early iterations of the workshop will focus on primary school level children but we plan to adjust the content for schools, colleges and universities.

Looking further ahead, the course will be offered in respected farmed animal sanctuaries, alongside animal behaviourists, so that students can meet the animals in person, taking their learnings into the real world.