The Ripple Effect of Kindness
November is often a month of reflection and gratitude, marked by the warmth of gathering friends and family for Thanksgiving and the crisp chill of autumn leaves. As parents, this time of year is an ideal time to teach the profound impact kindness can have.
Studies have shown that practicing kindness not only enhances emotional well-being but also fosters a sense of belonging and community. By making kindness a family affair in November, parents set the stage for children to understand and appreciate the difference they can make in the world, no matter how small their actions may seem.
With gratitude,
—MiaLisa Millares, Executive Director
ACTIONS
Gratitude Jar
Encourage children to recognize acts of kindness and gratitude by creating a Gratitude Jar. Each day in November, family members can write down something they're thankful for or an act of kindness they've witnessed. Over time, these notes will serve as a tangible reminder of the positivity that surrounds them. This activity encourages reflection and helps children appreciate the good in their lives while nurturing an attitude of gratitude.
Neighborhood Clean Up
Take advantage of the beautiful autumn weather and organize a neighborhood cleanup day with your family. This activity not only teaches the importance of environmental stewardship but also fosters a sense of responsibility and pride in their community. By working together to maintain a clean and welcoming environment, children learn the impact of collective efforts toward a shared goal.
Assemble Care Kits for the Homeless
If you often wonder how you can help someone who is homeless and holding up a sign on a street corner, try assembling these simple kits.
Random Acts of Kindness Day
Dedicate a day in November to performing random acts of kindness as a family. These simple gestures can include leaving a friendly note for a neighbor, baking cookies for a friend, or donating gently used toys. Encourage your kids to brainstorm creative ways to spread joy and positivity, making the activity personal and meaningful.
Hunger Calendar
As the weather gets colder it is important to think about daily activity. Take this opportunity to reflect more and to create an impact in your community. Want to take this learning further? Check out our Hunger Curriculum to learn more.
Volunteer Listings
Are you looking for more opportunities in your area to spread kindness with your kids? Check out our free volunteer listings. Our lists provide a great variety of opportunities that can meet many needs. Simply subscribe to the list and receive a free monthly email that details a number of different opportunities in your community to give back as a family.
CONVERSATIONS
What does kindness mean to you?
Can you think of a time when someone was kind to you? How did it make you feel?
What are some ways you can show kindness to your friends or classmates?
Why do you think it is important to be kind to people who are different from us?
How can we express kindness to animals and the environment?
What is a random act of kindness you could do today?
How do you think the world would change if everyone did one kind thing every day?
What is one thing you would like to do to make someone’s day better tomorrow?
READ
41 Inspirational Picture Books About Kindness
Check out our list of inspiring books sure to spark kindness this November.
INSPIRATION
“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.”
—Princess Diana