Tonight with your 5 to 8 year old
The prompt
“Was there ever a time you stuck up for someone smaller or younger than you?”
What to listen for
If they can share a real memory, notice the pride in their voice, that pride is a sign they're building an identity around protecting others, which is worth naming clearly and warmly. If they describe being scared to do it but doing it anyway, that's actually the most valuable version of the story, courage plus kindness together.
If they can't think of a moment, don't worry, ask instead what they WOULD do if they saw someone smaller being picked on, and listen to their instinct rather than a memory.
If they say "I don't know," that's a fine stopping point tonight; the seed is planted just by asking.
What this tells you
Whether they can recall standing up for someone shows how much they already see themselves as someone who protects others.