Simple Ways to Instill Kindness in Children

How do you teach children to be kind? Cultivate a culture where kindness becomes a norm rather than an exception. Here are simple ways to instill kindness in children.

Did you know November 13th is World Kindness Day? My daughters’ schools are celebrating the international day of kindness by discussing the 2024 theme: Make Kindness the Norm. This idea is one I have ingrained upon my children since birth. From a simple smile to a helping hand, all kind gestures not only uplift the spirits of others but also fosters a more harmonious society.

Simple Ways to Instill Kindness in Children

The most simple way to instill kindness in children is to make kindness the norm. Children learn best by example, so be a good role model. As parents it is our duty to show our kids how to be kind through our own actions. Make an unkind mistake in front of your children? Point out your behavior and use it as a teachable moment.

1. Good Manners are one of the simplest ways to be kind to others. Please, thank you, you’re welcome, etc. Make these words a natural part of your child’s vocabulary.
2. Gratitude. It isn’t always easy to teach gratitude to young children, but it can be done. Gratitude is the quality of being thankful and readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. Here are 6 Gratitude Activities for Kids.
3. Volunteering is a great method for instilling kindness in children by exposing them to the needs of their community.
4. Talk about the meaning of KINDNESS and moments when you have been the recipient of a kind act. Did someone hold the door for you when your arms were full?
5. Be Kind to Yourself. Self-love is one of the most incredible ways to be kind. Help your child write down compliments to herself.
6. Discuss how it isn’t always easy to be kind. Kindness is an act and can take a lot of work. There are healthy boundaries for kindness too – you don’t have to be kind to everyone.
7. Empathy. Ask your children to try to imagine how someone else feels in situations – we do this a lot during sister squabbles or jealous moments. Elmo has great tips for encouraging empathy in kids too.
8. Be Helpers. Helping is a form of kindness in itself and can be taught to a toddler. Ask for their assistance with simple house chores, like clearing the dishes, so kids to see that they, too, can make a difference in other people’s lives. Then say THANK YOU!

What is World Kindness Day?

The origin of World Kindness Day can be traced back to 1998 when it was introduced by the World Kindness Movement, an organization founded by a coalition of kindness-related organizations from various countries. The goal was to raise awareness about the importance of kindness in creating a harmonious world. This day encourages individuals and communities alike to reflect on the importance of compassion, empathy, and generosity in our daily lives.

Encourage your child to become a RAKTIVIST (Random Acts of Kindness Activist) by making kindness the norm. Kindness doesn’t cost money – a compliment is free! Read more here about teaching kindness at home – there are even printable lessons.

As we share stories of kindness and participate in community activities, we collectively cultivate a culture where kindness becomes a norm rather than an exception, inspiring future generations to prioritize the well-being of others and embrace the transformative power of being kind.

Looking for more? You can find many children’s books about kindness at the local library – like “Be Kind” by Pat Zietlow Miller.