#129 - Helping Kids Learn Empathy with Picture Books (with Matthew Paul Turner)

You don’t have to look far or listen long to know why we need to teach our kids empathy. Basic kindness seems to be harder and harder to find, and if you’re like me, you are deeply motivated to encourage your kids to be better. To be more inclusive, to be kinder, to be different than what we’re surrounded by.   And that is why my friend, Matthew Paul Turner, is here today to talk with me about specific children’s books that help us do just that. Matthew is a children’s author himself; he’s written some of my family’s favorites like When God Made You, When I Pray for You, and What Is God Like. So what I’m saying here is that he’s an expert. And, as you’ll hear, he’s genuinely dedicated to teaching his kids about the wonder and beauty of all people and the importance of showing each of them kindness and love.   Of course, because this is The Couch, where side notes and rabbit trails are always welcome, we also discuss game shows and Netflix shows about teen ghosts that may include a whole lot of cursing.   It’s almost time to get started, but one more quick note: Thank you to everyone who has already purchased my new book, Prayers from the Parking Lot! I am so grateful and I’m also hopeful it’s an encouragement to you and the moms you know. And to those of you who not only bought the book but then shared it on social media? Well, you are obviously my favorite. Thank you, friends.   MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:   All the books on this list!   NOT-SO-GUILTY PLEASURES: Press Your Luck, hosted by Elizabeth Banks Boo, Bitch on Netflix   DON’T FORGET: Join The Couch on Facebook! It’s so much fun! Find Matthew on Instagram at @matthewpaulturner, on Twitter at @heympt, or on his website. And you can find me on Instagram at @marycarver or at marycarver.com.   Welcome to The Couch!   This post may include affiliate links. This means that if you click and purchase, I might receive a small commission at no extra charge to you.