Renewing Kindness This September
September is a month of renewal and fresh starts as children return to the classroom. It is an opportune time to spread kindness and kindle new friendships. A simple act of kindness can make a big difference in a child's day and can set the tone for the entire school year.
Studies show that kindness not only lifts the spirits of the giver, but the receiver as well. Even more importantly, there is a likelihood that kindness will be passed on to others and spread throughout the community.
This September, encouraging children to share, show empathy, and be respectful toward their peers can foster a nurturing and inclusive school environment. By taking the initiative to welcome new students, or by lending a helping hand to those in need, children can make their classrooms a warmer and more welcoming place. Help your children to inspire classroom kindness this September.
With gratitude,
– MiaLisa Millares, Executive Director
ACTIONS
Here are some ideas for kindling new friendships this September
Lend a Helping Hand
Encourage children to look for ways to assist their classmates, whether it be with classwork or helping someone pick up spilled items. These simple acts will not only create friendship but also promote a sense of community.
Share a Good Book
Reading can be a shared experience that cultivates friendships. Children can recommend their favorite books to each other, or they can start a small big-hearted book club where they read and discuss books together.
Inspire Kind Acts by Reading About Kindness
Nurture empathy and kindness through literature. Read books that showcase acts of kindness, and encourage children to incorporate these values into their daily lives. Browse our Read with Empathy collection for book recommendations!
Try Our Back-to-School Kindness Ideas
Have your family engage in all of the kindness challenges on this easy-to-use template.
Share Kindness with Your Neighbor
Extend the circle of kindness beyond the classroom. Encourage children to be kind and courteous to their neighbors, whether by helping with small tasks or simply greeting them with a smile. These small acts can foster a sense of community and friendship. You can take the kindness even further by making your neighbor some special treats!
Simple Kindness Service Projects
These simple service projects are easy to do but have a lasting impact on the people they help. Spread some kindness this September in your community by giving back in meaningful ways.
Volunteer Listings
Invite your new friends to come volunteer with you or your family. Whether setting up a lemonade stand or going to a pre-planned activity, sharing kindness together is a great way to connect and allow the ripple effects of kindness to work their magic!
CONVERSATIONS
Inspire your children to meet new friends by preparing them with some easy-to-ask icebreaker questions.
What was your favorite part of summer?
What grade have you enjoyed most so far?
What are you looking forward to the most this year?
What is your favorite book? Why do you like it?
What is your favorite place? Why?
Tell me about your family.
What do you like to do outside?
What is something you do very well?
How can you spread kindness this year?
READ
The Invisible Boy
This charming story will inspire every reader who has ever felt invisible (hint: that's everyone at some time or another!).
It is a great read for anyone who is looking to understand more about the power of a great friend.
INSPIRATION
“A friend may be waiting behind a stranger’s face.”
― Maya Angelou, Letter to My Daughter