What does it mean to be kind?
It means being friendly, generous and/or considerate towards others. These are easy ways to treat others, right? Sadly, not for everyone. This is why it is so critical as educators we teach our students the impact kindness has on others in their school, home and community.
Each year, I challenge my students to do 100 Random Acts of Kindness in 30 days. This is always a lofty goal, but it always seems to put the fire under my kids to go out of their way to do kind acts for others. While we participate in this challenge, we push ourselves to do things for others we would normally not do. We then share out our random acts of kindness on our Confetti Wall. I love seeing my students faces when they share out how doing kind acts for others impacted them in a positive, loving way.
Why a Kindness Challenge?
Current research shows that devoting time, energy and resources to others has a positive impact on your own well-being. Researchers have proven that when you are kind, it helps you become a happier person.
What Have I Learned about Kindness?
Kindness impacts everyone. You never know how big the impact of a small gesture can really be for someone else. It makes me a happier person when I focus on being kind to others. It improves the culture and climate in my classroom and at home. It also improves the quality of life in our greater community. When you do things for others, you just feel good inside.
5 Quick Kind Acts to do TODAY:
1) Make a special card for someone in your life. Leave it on their desk or pillow.
2) Decorate a kindness rock and leave it at a park for someone to find.
3) Bring flowers to a neighbor- just because it is spring time.
4) Buy coffee or drink in for your colleague.
5) Make it a point to SMILE at everyone you see for 24 hours!
Watch, wait and see how little acts of kindness can make a positive ripple effect in the world.
