Despite all the challenges in the world today, parents and caregivers can teach kids that kindness is always trending. Cultivating a kinder next generation is critical because research shows that 62% of Americans believe people most often “just look out for themselves” rather than trying to help others. The challenge to change that is on!
In a world where kids can become anything they dream, you can help them choose to be kind — and it can start at school. No matter a child’s age or grade, these seven random acts of kindness ideas can help kids make a lasting impact and encourage others to lead with kindness.
1. Sit With Someone New at Lunch
Everyone deserves to feel included at school. One of the best ways to help others feel seen and appreciated is by getting to know them, and what better way than over lunch. Encourage kids to expand their horizons and sit with someone new — especially if they see another person sitting alone. Kids can talk about their hobbies, where they live and their favorite teachers. Who knows? A new best friend might be sitting right in front of them.
2. Smile in the Hallway
There’s nothing more uplifting than a spontaneous smile from someone — and the benefits are mutual. Research shows smiling can help relieve stress, elevate mood and help people feel more positive. Kids can share a smile to turn a tough day around or as a small act of kindness for someone else.
3. Give Someone Your Full Attention
In a world full of distractions, giving someone your full attention can be one of the greatest (and unexpected) random acts of kindness. Students can practice giving someone their full attention by:
- Putting away mobile devices
- Listening intently
- Making eye contact while the other person speaks
- Nodding in acknowledgment
- Waiting for the other person to finish before speaking
- Asking the other person if they’d like feedback or an opinion
4. Thank a School Employee
It takes many people to run a school, and everyone makes valuable contributions, from teachers to administrators, coaches, janitors and other staff members. Encourage students to thank the people who work at their school. It doesn’t have to be for something specific; it can just be “thank you for everything you do.” Saying “thank you” makes the other person feel appreciated and helps foster an attitude of gratitude in kids, which is the perfect mindset to build a great future.
5. Leave a Note of Encouragement on Someone’s Desk or Locker
Kids can do simple random acts of kindness by leaving a note of encouragement on a classmate’s desk or locker. Here are some smile-worthy phrases kids can write on a sticky note:
- You are special!
- Keep up the great work!
- I loved your project!
- Thanks for being you!
- You are awesome!
- You’ve got this!
6. Clean Up Around Campus
Encourage kids to keep their school campus clean by picking up litter when they see it, recycling and notifying a teacher or staff member if something needs fixing. Random acts of kindness like this make staff members’ jobs easier, show student pride and cultivate a sense of responsibility.
7. Help Someone Study for a Test
Kids who excel in certain subjects can assist their classmates who need extra help. Not only will they get an A+ for their efforts, but it might inspire others to be more helpful.
Original Source: https://www.bgca.org/news-stories/2022/August/7-random-acts-of-kindness-kids-can-do-at-school