In Paul Schwartz’s column in Hudson Valley Parent magazine, he discussed the 10 qualities of “great kids.” Here’s one quality that kids need to develop in order to lead a happy, healthy life while being able to face the challenges of the 21st century.

Empathy (the ability to care): Children develop empathy in infancy, most commonly by the caring models that exhibit this trait. Empathy develops when a child becomes aware of his feelings and a parent helps him express them freely. Encourage your child to express his feelings and to become a good listener! The more empathy is modeled and practiced by you at home, the more it will develop in your children.

 Paul Schwartz, Ph.D., is a professor of psychology and education at Mount Saint Mary College. He is available for speaking engagements to parent groups.