Do you talk about goodwill with your little ones or show it to them? Acts of kindness for kids are just as important as acts of kindness for adults. And as parents or guardians, we must introduce these values to them early on.
I recall promising this resolution to myself way before becoming a parent: I’ll raise caring and compassionate people to help change the world someday. I’m pretty sure you have similar sentiments. And, hopefully, this article will give you ideas to kickstart these good deeds.
So pin, save, or share the image below for your youngins’ free printable kindness checklists!
At School
- Assist a classmate with schoolwork
- Share snacks or lunch with someone
- Include a new friend in recess games
- Write a thank you note to your teacher
- Clean up after an activity
On the Playground
- Invite someone left out to play
- Pick up litter on the playground
- Share your favorite toy or game
- Cheer on a struggling classmate
- Offer to push someone on swings
At Home
- Make breakfast in bed for the family
- Do an extra chore unasked
- Compliment family members all-day
- Offer help with meal preparation
- Leave hidden notes with positive messages
In the Community
- Donate toys or clothes to a charity
- Make cards for nursing home residents
- Help an elderly neighbor with yard work
- Collect canned goods for a food drive
- Volunteer at a local animal shelter
Online
- Leave positive comments
- Share uplifting news
- Support someone going through a tough time
- Join online fundraisers for causes
- Send virtual hugs or kind messages
Everywhere
- Smile and greet strangers
- Hold the door open for someone
- Compliment someone on the street
- Pay for a stranger’s food
- Leave kind notes in random places
Why Acts of Kindness for Kids Matter
Receiving grace, care, and compassion undoubtedly improves the well-being of those who receive them. But did you know that those who give acts of kindness experience similar benefits?1
According to research, sending kind letters makes people feel good about themselves. Likewise, receiving these letters boosts self-esteem and fosters a sense of connection, even with strangers. Ultimately, the study shows that doing and receiving kind acts can make you feel better and less alone.
For children, practicing acts of kindness can also have a significant impact on their development. It teaches them:2
- Empathy
- Compassion
- Gratitude for others
- Positive social skills
- Self-esteem
- Optimism
How to Encourage Acts of Kindness in Children
To ensure your child learns the value of compassion, model it yourself. Additionally, talk about it with them. Here are some other ways you can cultivate kindness in children:
- Explain the impact: Help them understand how their kind actions can make a difference in someone else’s life.
- Practice gratitude together: Encourage them to recognize and appreciate the good in others and express gratitude.
- Give opportunities to help: Involve them in activities that let them help someone, such as volunteering or helping a family member or friend.
- Acknowledge kind acts: Recognize their efforts, no matter how small.
- Be patient: Teaching kindness takes time and patience, so be understanding and supportive when children make mistakes or struggle with showing empathy.
Conclusion
Acts of kindness for kids and adults alike have the power to create a positive ripple effect in our communities. By teaching children the value of compassion and empathy, we can raise a generation of kind, empathetic people who will make the world a better place.
How do you encourage kindness in your children? Share your tips and experiences with us!
- Wang et al. “‘Kindness by Post’: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Participatory Public Mental Health Project.” Frontiers in Psychology, 2021. ↩︎
- “7 Reasons Why Teaching Children Kindness is Essential.” Marine Corps Community Services. ↩︎
