This week we focus on kindness towards others. This is the easiest form of kindness as it offers
immediate feedback and reward. The person receiving the kind act feels appreciative and when they thank you, it feels rewarding to you and makes the act feel worthwhile. Here are some ways to show kindness this week and moving
forward.
Random Acts of Kindness
These can be as simple as saying something nice to someone. Teach your child to make it a habit to offer compliments and praise other people’s efforts. Get your child involved in giving compliments: Set a goal at the beginning of the day to give away kind words and compliments. Whether your child says, “I like your jacket” to another child at the playground,
or they say, “Your hair looks good today,” to their sibling, talk about what it means to give compliments. Carry around colored note cards. Let your child write small compliments on them to leave for other people. Leave one behind on the table at a restaurant to compliment your server.
Do Chores for Someone
Provide acts of service for people who may need a helping hand. When you make it a regular habit to do so, your child will learn to recognize people in need and opportunities when they can pitch in. Before visiting grandparents or friends agree with your children that they will clear the table or fill the water glasses at the dinner table. Identify a neighbor who could use some help with yard work. As a family, rake the leaves, cut the grass, or weed the garden. Regularly donate time to help grandparents around the house. Encourage your child to surprise a sibling by doing one of their chores for them.
– Written by Kumar Bandyo