It’s a moment that stopped moms scrolling. In a viral TikTok with 8.8 million views, @queenn_gee calmly teaches her young son about periods while doing laundry together.

“Used this moment to remind and teach my son that menstrual blood is normal,” reads the text on the video. And she does just that, showing him how to treat blood on clothing without disgust, while emphasizing care and compassion.

“See this blood on here? I’m going to take this peroxide and pour some on there. It will bubble up and then wash it and it should wash out,” she explains to her son. “You’re going to get older and you maybe have your own kids, or a woman, and I don’t ever want you to be like, I’m not touching that. Take care of it, use the peroxide, and be there for them.”

@queenn_gee

We’ve already had the discussion about what they are and his role. He was helping with laundry so I used it as a teaching. ••• #sons #boys #menstrual #teachingkids #raisingkids

♬ original sound – Gee Gee 🦋

The boy listens attentively, absorbing the lesson about empathy in a concrete, real-world way. Later, she quizzes him on what to do if he sees someone with period blood on their pants. He answers thoughtfully, showing he’s internalizing both practical knowledge and emotional responsibility. The clip ends with a hug and high-five, a quiet celebration of learning and care.

Related: How to talk to kids about periods: An age-by-age guide

Why this resonated: The shift toward empathy-based parenting

According to Dr. Michele Borba, an expert in child development, modeling empathy is crucial for nurturing compassionate children. She emphasizes that children learn empathy by observing the behaviors of adults, highlighting the importance of parents demonstrating kindness and understanding in everyday situations. This approach helps children internalize these values and apply them in their interactions with others.

Parents and viewers are taking notice

The TikTok resonated with thousands of viewers, who flooded the comments with praise for @queenn_gee’s thoughtful parenting.

Some highlighted the boy’s attentiveness and emotional intelligence, like @laurelcanyon1986 who wrote, “He is listening intently.”

Others celebrated the way she’s raising her son, including @wellroundedphysician: “Girl you are raising a MAN. You are so inspiring.” 

These reactions show that intentional, empathy-focused parenting inspires other parents and caregivers to reflect on how they model kindness and compassion in everyday life.

How parents can teach compassion early

Teaching empathy and compassion doesn’t have to be a formal lesson, it can be woven into everyday life. Kids learn best through real-world examples and conversations that connect to their daily experiences.

Using small, tangible moments, like noticing someone struggling, helping with chores, or responding to accidents, helps children see the value of kindness in action. Modeling care doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some practical ways to start:

  • For younger kids (ages 3–6): “Sometimes bodies bleed, and that’s normal. How could you help if someone needed a jacket or some privacy?”
  • For older kids (ages 7–12): “If you see someone struggling, what’s the kindest way to respond? Let’s practice saying it out loud.”
  • Inclusive framing: Include nonbinary or transgender peers in examples; empathy isn’t gender-specific.

Related: Mom’s viral rap about periods should be shown in every health class

When everyday lessons shape future adults

As per Dr. Sheryl Ziegler, a licensed clinical psychologist and author of Mommy Burnout, children learn empathy by observing the behaviors of adults.

She emphasizes that modeling empathetic behavior, through acts of kindness, active listening, and emotional regulation helps children internalize these values and apply them in their interactions with others.

By demonstrating compassion in everyday situations, parents can cultivate empathy in their children, fostering a more understanding and connected generation.

Moments like @queenn_gee’s viral TikTok show that teaching boys care doesn’t require elaborate lessons—just intentional, calm, and consistent modeling. Every hug, every high-five, every simple conversation lays the groundwork for a more empathetic generation.

Source:

  1. Doing Good Together. Empathy in Action: An Interview With Dr. Michele Borba.”
  2. Dr. Sheryl Zielger. 2020.How To Raise Kind Kids.”