Empathy Thumball

Description

Thumball is a soft stuffed ball to throw, roll, or pass in a circle or randomly. Catch it! Look under your thumb. Respond to the prompt. Kids absolutely love this interactive tool that will get them talking and sharing. Without even knowing it, you will be encouraging the use of interpersonal skills including taking turns, eye contact, listening, responding, valuing similarities and respecting individual differences.
Players respond to prompts on this ball around the topic of empathy. They are encouraged to discuss how to stand in someone else’s shoes, show good listening and make skillful statements to others as they experience any of several emotions. The Thumball offers a fun way for students to discuss the topic of empathy which affects them personally socially and academically. Empathy training should be a fundamental part of any anti-bullying program. When students learn to better understand and appreciate the feelings and perspectives of others they become less likely to be bullies and more willing to reach out to any of their peers who might be bully victims.