We all appreciate a kind word or a kind deed.
Imagine a world… Or an early learning centre where everybody had a kindness mindset daily. Where people woke up in the morning and actually “clothed” themselves with kindness. Where people’s first thoughts were… What can I do for others today?
When we experience kindness from others it is so encouraging and spurs us on to want to spread the love!
As parents, carers and educators, what a privilege it is for us to foster kindness in our homes, schools and communities.
Here are a few ideas to encourage kindness in children:
- Kindness modelling begins at home. Kindness can be intentional or random.
- Give kindness status. Emphasise how important it is to you.
- Good manners are a good grounding. “Please” and “Thank You” show gratitude and respect.
- Develop a kindness vocabulary. Positive words should be commonplace in the home.
- Have good boundaries. Limits discourage self-centredness and selfishness in our children.
- Kindness includes showing an appreciation for our world. Not littering, caring for animals and others etc.
- Make kindness a family venture. Design projects to focus on others.
- Develop a kindness radar in your children. Help them to look for opportunities to serve others and point out praiseworthy models/ behaviour/stories or heroes.
- Encourage them to put themselves in somebody else’s shoes and to see the world through other people’s eyes.
The world cannot have too much kindness. Kindness is the pathway to empathy which is a powerful skill in building healthy relationships with those around us.
Mother Teresa said “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness. Kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes and kindness in your smile.”
