Picture book for 2nd Grade and Up!
This book demonstrates how even a single small act can make a significant difference.
Movie Night:
This movie is about kindness, empathy, and the challenges of being different. It is about standing up for others and what it really means to include people.
Role modeling is the first step in teaching kindness to kids.
If they see you being kind, it normalizes it for them. Hold doors open for people. Thank your server. Use specific kind language, such as: “I can see you are hurting,” or “This is a hard situation,” or “What can I do to help? I’m here for you.” They’ll pick up on these acts and will emulate them.
Teach them to be KIND to themselves.
It’s important for kids to be kind to themselves, too. Sometimes, when we focus on kindness, we think that means only doing things to help others, but we cannot be a good helper if we don’t take care of ourselves. Good self-care involves regular sleep, a balanced diet, physical activity, adequate hydration, socializing, and engaging in enjoyable activities. Being kind to themselves also includes positive self-talk. Please encourage them to say only positive things. Saying, “I may not understand this right now, but I will,” rather than using deprecating language and forgiving themselves when they make mistakes or are unkind to others. Doing wrong things is all a part of the human experience. So is forgiveness and kindness. (from Cincinnati Children's Blog).
Explain that SMALL acts of kindness have a BIG impact!
No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. Sometimes all it takes is a smile or a simple hello.
Clarify that it's not always easy.
The more you do it, the easier it becomes.