This episode of ‘Navigating the Digital Jungle with Sue Atkins and Friends’ addresses the pressing need to teach digital empathy in an increasingly virtual world. Sue Atkins and guests Angeline Corvaglia and Sarah Mears from Empathy Lab discuss how to nurture empathy in children as they interact online.
Key topics include differentiating AI from human interactions, identifying and combating online bullying, and practical tips for parents to foster kindness and digital empathy.
The episode also highlights Empathy Lab’s mission to use literature and stories to build empathy and reduce societal divisions. Additionally, it provides actionable advice for educators and parents, such as empathy walks and involvement in social actions. The importance of human connection in the digital age is emphasised, aiming to create a safer and more compassionate online environment.
Sarah Mears is a director and co-founder of EmpathyLab a charitable social enterprise promoting the power of books to build children’s empathy. Sarah’s day job is as Programmes Director at Libraries Connected supporting public libraries in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Sarah was awarded an MBE for Services to Children and Young People in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June 2018 and in 2022 became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals.
Find out more:
https://data-girl-and-friends.com/
And for more information, transcripts and resources on this and other episodes visit: https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/
00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Digital Jungle
00:40 Understanding Digital Empathy
03:21 Addressing Online Bullying
07:55 Introducing Empathy Lab with Sarah Mears
12:35 Practical Tips for Parents and Educators
26:14 Listener Questions and Advice
36:04 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics
39:08 Sponsor Message
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A Practical Guide
A calm, practical starter guide from Sue Atkins to help you handle smartphones, social media, gaming, sleep and online pressure — without rows or panic.
Download the free scripts and tips here.
