August 25, 2018

Quote of the Week

"If you want to lift yourself up, lift someone else up." - Booker T. Washington

Training Kids For Kindness

"Compassion involves both the heartfelt wish that others be free from suffering and the readiness to act on their behalf. It arises from a deep sense of affection for others, coupled with a sensitivity to their pain and the recognition that their suffering can be transformed.

Most of us find it easy to feel compassion for those that are close to us. The closer we feel to someone, the more unbearable it seems to witness their pain. It is more difficult, however, to feel compassion or even concern for strangers, those that are not like us, or those who have harmed or wronged us in some way. When it comes to those we dislike strongly, we may feel little if any discomfort in seeing their suffering, or may even, in the worst cases, take pleasure in it.

In order to learn to extend our compassion in ever-widening circles, including to those whom we have had difficulties with, we need to cultivate impartiality." [read more]

Reading Corner

Title: Be Kind
By: Pat Zietlow Miller
Ages: 3-6

"When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind?  From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference―or at least help a friend.  With a gentle text, Be Kind is an unforgettable story about how two simple words can change the world." - Publishers

Be the Change

This week's suggested article is not only a great guide for kids, but also a step-up for adults.

Based on the article and the suggested book, have a heart-to-heart chat with your child around ways in which he/she may have stood up for kindness in the day or in the week. What's more, as a parent you could share your stories in exchange too.

What did you notice in the process? How did the conversation change when the stories were being shared? What are the small changes you would like to bring in order to spotlight kindness in your life? How do you wish to continue this practice going forward?