Affection. Warmth. Gentleness. No matter which synonym you choose, kindness is becoming a lost art in today’s society. Our children sometimes do not realize that others are not as fortunate as them. If there is one lesson you want to teach your children, it should be the value of the warm fuzzies that you get when you help someone out! Read the tips below to learn how to share that feeling with your kids!
Pay it forward. Share a good deed by blessing a stranger who is not expecting it. This does not have to be elaborate. You could have your children use some of their money to purchase the meal of the person behind you in the drive-thru or purchase a bucket of popcorn for the next 5 people in line at the movies. Let your kids marvel in the thought that they may have made someone’s day with their gesture!
Make a donation. This can be of money, time or physical objects. Put a portion of allowance money aside each week for a local pet shelter or donate unwanted toys to a homeless shelter for the kids there. Let your kids know how important every donation, big or small, is and what an impact it may have on someone!
Help them realize what they have. Children often view the world with rose-colored glasses, unaware that others are not as fortunate. Spend some time researching poverty levels in surrounding communities. Brainstorm ways to help those in need in your area and then put your plan into action!
Visit a nursing home or children’s hospital. Make handmade cards and go visit the local nursing home. A simple visit with a child can brighten anyone’s day! If you have a local children’s hospital, hold a book drive or toy drive and personally take the items to the hospital. This will not only make someone’s day but will give your child the satisfaction of knowing that they helped!
Being kind to others is something we all should make a point to do daily. Teaching your children the importance of being kind is a life-lesson they can take with them forever! Check out this list for other great ways to share kindness!