Do you remember the last time someone showed kindness towards you? How did it make you feel?
Can you also recall a time when you were kind to someone? How did that make you feel?
If we observe the world we live in, we will realize that every day, we, and those around us are performing small acts of kindness. It can take many forms, like assisting someone with chores, taking the time to inquire about how they are doing, or complimenting them. It is kindness and compassion that binds people together and makes the world a happier place. It prevails all around us and maybe appreciated every moment.
A Day to Encourage Kindness
How many of us are aware that a day has been dedicated to highlight the importance of good deeds in the community?
World Kindness Day was founded in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement to encourage kindness around the globe. This day is celebrated on 13th November annually. The day has gained genuine global recognition since it was established more than 20 years ago. Activities related to the day have drawn attendees from every continent. These have included events like concerts, dance parties, and exchange of “kindness cards” The goal of World Kindness Day is to spread compassion via little acts of thoughtfulness.
UNESCO MGIEP has introduced #KindnessMatters for the SDGs, a global youth campaign. They aspire to engage young people worldwide in achieving the 17 SDGs by inspiring deeds of kindness. This initiative aims to foster a compassionate society in which every young person’s altruistic deed counts!
Researchers in psychology have discovered that being kind to others increases happiness and well-being. It has also been related to physical health advantages, such as lower blood pressure.
How to Instill an Appreciation for Kindness in Children
As educators and parents, we want children to see the world as a hopeful place. Appreciating kindness can go a long way in developing a sense of gratitude. Here are a few ways we can help children cherish kindness in everyday life.
Sharing personal stories- Sharing personal stories of kindness with children helps them value it in their daily lives. It also encourages them to be more compassionate towards others.
Kindness Jars – We can place kindness jars in our homes. Whenever a family member does or receives a kind act, a chit can be added in the jar. Watch the numbers grow. Later, read out the chits in family meetings and cherish the memories.
Acts of Kindness -Simple acts like helping friends and family with daily chores, enquiring about their health, lending a helping hand to someone in need go a long way in adding beauty to the world.
Kindness Quotes and Other Crafts – Children can express themselves in creative ways and place quotes or other craft items with messages of kindness in their rooms. It is a wonderful idea to make kindness paperweights out of stones and gift them to friends and family.
Acknowledging Empathy -In our life there are many moments when we feel overwhelmed with emotions. It is a blessing to have empathetic people in our lives who support us without judging us at such times. Acknowledge and appreciate them for their kindness.
‘Thank You’ Cards – Kids can be encouraged to make thank you cards for the helpers at home, school and the community. Watch the faces of the helpers light up as they receive the cards.
Narrating Stories of Kindness to Kids – Stories create an immersive experience for children as they are able to relate to the characters in the stories. Our folktales and mythological stories also emphasize the value of kindness. ‘Daanveer Karan’ a character from Mahabharat, is well known for his generosity and benevolence.
Be Kind to Yourself – This is of utmost importance and should be taught from an early age. We often judge ourselves rather harshly and forget to be kind to ourselves. Self-compassion involves treating oneself with respect and kindness, just as we would treat a dear friend.
Donate Clothes, Toys, Old Books, and Stationery – Inspire your children to give away old clothes, toys and other items, they have outgrown, to those in need.
Raise Funds For Those in Need – I am sure many of us still remember the satisfaction we felt, as kids, when we raised funds for those in need. Instill the same values in your children.
Kindness Towards Nature -Watering and taking care of plants, using our resources judiciously and being mindful towards environmental pollution are some ways to show kindness towards nature.
Even the smallest act of kindness has an impact and facilitates in creating a better world.
Do share with us some of your kindness stories and how they made you feel.
“Remember, there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” —Scott Adams
Kindness both given and received is a very big catalyst for happiness which should be the ultimate aim in life.
Parents who inculcate kindness in their children lead to a much better society in the long run.
I agree that kindness matters. When you do an act selflessly, you feel gratified eternally. Thank you so much for sharing the informative write upon the same .
Thank you maam for sharing the information about World kindness day.Yes I agree that even simple acts of kindness gives you emense pleasure and satisfaction.
This kindness day I will be more mindful towards nature and concentrate on judicious use of resources.
Thank you ma’am Very nice points l will surely start practicing.
Kindness is something which even a blind person can see. Small acts of kindness are enough to live a happy and content life. We always feel satisfied, content and happy after being kind. So, being kind is not only good for the other person but it is a blessing for us too.
Thank you ma’am for sharing an informative write-up.
Such a beautiful yet powerful message you have conveyed through thoughtful activities. Thank you for sharing ma’am!
Rightfully said “Be kind when possible. It is always possible” 14th Dalai Lama
I believe kind acts work as boomerang. Though they always come back but we should do kindness act in an altruistic manner. I really appreciate the different kindness activities shared in this article. Thank you for sharing Ma’am.
Excellent informative article. “Kindness for happier world”. I am sure children are going to learn a lot from this detailed information.
kindness is the key to a better world with fellowship
Kindness is something we all want and something we’re all able to give. Big or small, every act of kindness has the ability to change someone’s day…possibly even their life. What act of kindness can you do today that reflects what lives in your heart?
Love is Kind, Kind is love.
Thank you ma’am for sharing inspiring and informative blog on world Kindness day.
Kindness itself is a word which involves satisfaction, either it is for nature or for donating anything for someone.
And moreover we should be kind to ourselves also so that we can understand this world around us.
Life is really beautiful and to do something for others definitely satisfy us.
Thanks mam for sharing such informative posts.
U hv Amazing writing skills and it’s a beautiful article on compassion.
Thank you so much for sharing this amazing article. I too believe that kindness is caring about others and doing things to help make their lives better. It allows us to connect with other people and build meaningful relationships.