“There’s no small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” —Scott Adams
This year more than ever, we could all use more kindness!
World Kindness Day, on Friday, November 13 this year, is observed in many countries including the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, and the U.A.E. The purpose of the day is “to highlight good deeds in the community by focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness that binds us.”
WKD provides a great opportunity for teachable moments with your child while also practicing some important social and academic skills.
As a certified teacher/owner of a teachers-only tutoring company, I’ve developed some ideas for World Kindness Day for kids that incorporate learning—suitable for homeschooling or just everyday learning with your child.
Write a Hand-Written Note
Break out the paper and pencil to practice cursive/printing together. Your child can jot down words of kindness for a stranger, family member, teacher, or whomever they choose.
Cook a Meal for Someone
Try a new recipe to teach your child how to follow instructions and learn about fractions. You can go the extra step and double or half the recipe to work on dividing or multiplying fractions too.
Create a Tik-Tok Dance
Spread joy through a dance with a positive message. Take it online and learn a dance with your child. This is a fun way to teach patterns (math!) and stay safe.
The Kindness Rock Project
Leave one. Share one. Keep one. Create a kindness rock and make someone’s day. (Learn how to do it.)
Be Kind to Yourself
Being kind to yourself is just as important as being kind to others. Take a moment to yourself, set personal goals, or keep a daily journal. Lead by example and encourage your child to use positive self-talk and give each other gentle reminders when you are down on yourselves.
These are just some of the ways to celebrate World Kindness Day while also strengthening your child’s social-emotional and academic development. Do you have your own ideas? Comment below to share what you’re doing to teach your child about kindness.
