MOE’s Call for Values and Empathy: How We Can Nurture Kindness In Our Children

 In a recent message, Minister for Education Desmond Tan reminded us of something deeply important: schools should be safe spaces where children not only learn but also grow in values and empathy.

As he shared:

“Educators, parents and students want the same thing – for schools to be a safe space for our students to develop sound values, learn and forge friendships, and for our educators to steward and shape young lives.”

This commitment is part of MOE’s comprehensive review to strengthen how we address bullying and hurtful behaviour. The aim is to:
✅ Build a strong school culture of kindness
✅ Equip students with values and empathy
✅ Support educators to manage such behaviours
✅ Strengthen school-home partnerships

📌 Watch Minister Desmond Tan’s full message here: Instagram link

When Children Struggle with Values and Empathy

As parents, it can be worrying when a child has difficulty interacting with others. You may notice:

• Frequent fights or arguments with classmates over small disagreements
• Refusing to share toys, stationery, or space
• Keeping to themselves, avoiding group activities
• Saying hurtful things without realising the emotional impact
• Struggling to apologise or make amends when they are in the wrong

These behaviours often come from a lack of understanding of others’ feelings. Children who lack empathy may also show less respect for peers, teachers, or shared rules, even unintentionally. The good news is that empathy and values can be nurtured, and small changes can have a big impact on how children relate to others.

How It Can Affect Them as They Grow Up

If children grow up without learning empathy and values, the challenges often become bigger. As they move into their teenage years and adulthood, they may:

• Find it difficult to form close friendships because of poor conflict management skills
• Struggle in teamwork at school, university, or the workplace
• Develop a reputation for being unapproachable or insensitive, limiting opportunities
• Experience higher stress levels due to unresolved disputes and strained relationships
• Miss out on leadership roles because others may not trust or respect them

Empathy and a sense of values are more than social skills; they form the foundation for trust, cooperation, and meaningful relationships. A child who learns to consider others’ feelings and act thoughtfully is more likely to become an adult who navigates challenges calmly and contributes positively to their community.

The Link Between Empathy, Values, and Communication

Children who struggle with empathy and values often also have difficulties with communication. Without understanding another person’s perspective, conversations can feel one-sided, defensive, or unintentionally hurtful.

This can result in:

• Misunderstandings because they miss social cues
• Interrupting or dominating conversations without realising it
• Difficulty expressing themselves clearly in a way that others can connect with
• Avoidance of group discussions out of fear of being misunderstood or judged

These gaps make it harder to build trust, influence others, and work effectively in teams — skills that are essential both in school and later in life.

The Difference Empathy Makes in Everyday Life

Research from the National Institute of Education (NIE) in Singapore shows that intentionally teaching empathy helps students develop stronger friendships, resolve conflicts effectively, and avoid bullying.

Beyond school, empathy shapes everyday moments. A child who develops empathy is more likely to:

• Notice when a classmate is left out and invite them to join in
• Speak kindly to siblings or peers instead of reacting in frustration
• Understand why a friend might be upset and offer support
• Show patience in group activities, even when things don’t go their way

These everyday actions form the foundation of trust, cooperation, and respectful interactions. Without them, children may misinterpret intentions, respond defensively, and struggle to form lasting friendships or work collaboratively. When empathy and values become part of a child’s natural way of thinking, it equips them to navigate social challenges with understanding and confidence.

How Speech Academy Asia Supports Empathy and Communication

At Speech Academy Asia, we create an environment where children can learn to understand themselves and others. Our programmes focus on helping children express their thoughts clearly while practising empathy and positive interactions.

1. Model and Practise Thoughtfulness
   Children are encouraged to listen actively, wait for their turn, and respond thoughtfully during group discussions.

    

2. Real-Life Role Plays
   Scenarios allow children to see things from another person’s perspective, resolving disagreements, welcoming new classmates, or navigating challenging conversations.

    

3. Teamwork and Sharing
   Collaborative activities help children practise giving and receiving feedback, negotiating ideas, and supporting peers — developing both empathy and communication skills.

    

4. Reflection and Self-Awareness
   Guided discussions encourage children to consider how their words and actions affect others, helping them build confidence in communication alongside empathy and values.

Through these experiences, children gradually learn to communicate effectively while being mindful of others, which benefits them at school, at home, and in the wider community.

Further Programmes for Building Confidence and Empathy

For parents looking to support their child’s growth, Speech Academy Asia offers programmes designed to nurture confidence, communication, and leadership skills:

• Public Speaking for Kids – Helps children express themselves clearly while building empathy and social awareness.
• Mental Wellness Workshop for Kids and Teens – Supports emotional resilience and understanding of others’ feelings. 
• Leadership for Kids and Students – Cultivates teamwork, empathy, and responsible decision-making.

Final Thoughts

Minister Desmond Tan’s message is a timely reminder that values and empathy are as important as academic results. By nurturing these qualities from a young age, we help children succeed academically while also shaping them into compassionate, confident individuals who can contribute positively to society.

If you’d like to find out how our programmes can help your child grow in confidence, communication skills, empathy, and thoughtful interaction, we’d love to hear from you.

📞 Call or WhatsApp: 9061 1715
📧 Email: info@speechacademyasia.com
📍 Visit: JEM, 52 Jurong Gateway Road, #06-01, Singapore 608550