Would you like to encourage kids to do something this summer that could change the world? Why don’t you join me in my summer kindness challenge? Wouldn’t it be great if we could spread this challenge around the world? Pass it on and see what happens.
Challenges seem to be a popular thing right now. For the past few years, I have created summer challenges for students around reading, art, and creative thinking. This year my summer challenge is to be kind. Grab a free copy of my Summer Challenge Be Kind Activity Bingo Board and start spreading a little care. Everyone, everywhere, and every age can participate, so share this with your friends and get people all over the world showing some acts of kindness this summer.
Kindness Challenge Bingo
I know it’s not a new idea, but there can never be too much kindness in the world. Too often, we see just the opposite. It seems so much of what we witness on media is not kind at all. Unfortunately, we also see unkind behavior in our schools, communities and sometimes in our homes. What could be more important than showing the world what it means to be caring, thoughtful, compassionate, respectful citizens? That sounds like a huge task, but it starts with some simple steps that we can all take in the classroom and at home.
- Model Kindness
This is probably the most crucial step we can take toward helping our kids become thoughtful and caring individuals. If we want our students and children to learn kindness, they need to see what being kind looks like. Kids learn by example and copying what they see others do. Adults need to think of ways to show others in their schools, workplaces, communities, and homes some extra caring. Take the challenge this summer and learn some activities that will model kindness to others.
- Read About Kindness
I had to get summer reading in this post somehow! But seriously, check out your local library, bookstore, or Amazon and fill your summer reading lists with books that teach kindness. Stories are engaging and powerful motivators. Here are a few to check out.
The Invisible Boy, by Trudy Ludwig
Kindness is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler, by Margery Cuyler
Have You Filled a Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids, by Carol McCloud
What Does It Mean to Be Kind?, By Rana DiOrio
Last Stop on Market Street, by Matt de la Pena
Kindness Starts with You – At School, by Jacquelyn Stagg
A Sick Day for Amos McGee, by Philip Stead
Horton Hears a Who, by Dr. Seuss
What Should Danny Do? (The Power to Choose Series), by Adir Levy
Ordinary Mary’s Extraordinary Deed, by Emily Pearson
The Kindness Quilt, by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace
Non-Random Acts of Kindness (Life of Ty Series #2), by Lauren Myracle
- Smile and Say Hi
This is a simple one, but not always an easy one. Many times I know that I am in my own world and don’t notice others. Practice smiling at others daily. Don’t forget to look away from your phone and acknowledge people. A smile can make someone’s day.
- Volunteer
Helping others makes us feels good. Whether it’s with a community organization or helping a neighbor, volunteering can create a connection with others that keeps giving. Check out your local community for opportunities or just look around and see how you can help your neighbors and family.
- Take the Summer Be Kind Challenge
The Bingo Board has 24 activities to help spread a little kindness. Squares can be checked off for any kind action, encouraging kids to come up with their own ideas to show that they care. There are also writing journal pages to provide a way to reflect on what difference this experience made. Award tags can be earned and used to promote an attitude of giving.
Being kind is one thing everyone can excel at. It feels good and makes the world a better place for everyone. Acts of kindness, big and small, make a difference.
– Tammy
This article originally appeared at TammysTeachingTools.com
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