Choose Kindness

When children are “given”, it can create a sense of entitlement. When children “give”, psychologists tell us that human bonds are strengthened. There is greater joy in giving than in receiving and this is a lesson we should allow our children to learn.

This activity works for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa; actually it works any month of the year! Here is my proposal: Give your child a blank calendar page. This simple page becomes a journal or record of kindnesses. Each night at bedtime, ask your child to record an intentional kindness they performed that day. This few moments allows your child to savor joy in the kindness they performed. It also allows you a moment to look your child in the eyes and genuinely say, “I am proud of you!”

That moment when you really look at your child and tell him or her you are proud is powerful and profound…this is a message that helps forge a strong, resilient, loving, lifelong bond.

Here are a few ideas to get you and your child started on this journey of giving:

1. Do a chore for a family member.
2. Hold the door open for someone.
3. Recycle.
4. Pick up litter.
5. Feed the birds.
6. Give someone a compliment.
7. Let someone get in front of you in line.
8. Set the table.
9. Send a Thank You note to a service member or first responder.
10. Say, “I love you!” first.
11. Read to your little brother or sister.
12. Play with someone new on the playground.
13. Write a Thank You note to your teacher.
14. Help make dinner.
15. Donate a toy so a less fortunate child can receive a gift.
16. Bake cookies for a nursing home.
17. Clear the table after dinner.
18. Load the dishwasher or wash the dishes.
19. Clean your room without being asked.
20. Give a compliment.
21. Offer to play with your little brother or sister.
22. Write a Thank You note to your postal worker and leave it in the mailbox.
23. Share a toy with your brother or sister.
24. Help carry in groceries and put them away.
25. Fold the laundry.
26. Help your little brother or sister with homework.
27. Share your umbrella space.
28. Listen to your little brother or sister read out loud.
29. Get a haircut for Locks of Love.
30. Use sidewalk chalk to leave a positive message for others.
31. Smile!!

Author: Jennifer C. Walts, Ed.D.

I am a retired educator and School Improvement Specialist. View all posts by Jennifer C. Walts, Ed.D.