I don't know about you, but lately it seems that the news, whether it be on social feeds, television or radio, can get to be to heavy for my heart to handle at times. We get overwhelmed with the things in this world that can cause us to feel sad, shocked or even become angry toward another simply because they may not think the way we do. I always looking for ways to acknowledge the things that can bring us together, not tear us apart.
Did you know that there is an entire organization dedicated to celebrating this holiday? The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation offers plenty of resources for families, schools, organizations, and individuals to embrace and use to spread kindness one act at a time. National Random Acts of Kindness week is recognized annually every February. This year we will celebrate this week from February 14 - February 20.
This small non-profit group was founded to make kindness become the normal way we interact with each other. They offer tips and resources for educators and parents to bring ideas into the classroom, information to allow families to get involved, and discuss how we can bring kindness into the workplace. You can find out more about this organization here and different ways you can become involved to help make kindness become the norm.
 Image by John Kevin from Getty Images |
With so many folks having short fuses these days, the constant videos of angry "Karens" have overtaken social media. It seems we are quick to film hostile and angry interactions rather quickly to share with the masses. But what about all the kind things that happen in our communities everyday? I figured one way I could celebrate this day is to offer a few ideas to combat some of the negativity that's out in the universe.
Here are some quick tips for young children, teenagers, and parents to get involved on National Random Acts of Kindness Day on February 17 and find simple ways to show acts of kindness to others.
 Image created by Tracie Ysaguire via Canva Pro |
Easy Ideas for Young Children to Show Kindness |
1. Draw a picture or make a card for your parents, teacher, or elderly neighbor to brighten their day.
2. Make a snack for your siblings just because. They will be surprised but I bet you will make them smile, even if they don't let you see it! Try making these Candy Critters for your siblings or best friend!
3. Offer to help a classmate, a friend, or someone you know who may be struggling with a lesson at school.
4. Empty the dishwasher, wash the dishes, or put the dishes away to give your parents a break.
5. Donate canned goods, your favorite cereal or pasta, or some other favorite snack to a local shelter or food pantry.
6. Read to a younger sibling. I promise they will love spending that time with you!
 Image created by Tracie Ysaguire via Canva Pro |
Easy Ideas for Teens to Show Kindness |
1. Show off your cooking skills and offer to cook a meal for the family one night or for a neighbor. Your parents will love to have a night off from cooking duty!
2. Clean your sibling's room. I know, I know, you don't even want to clean your room. So when you think about, this is a true act of kindness you can pay forward!
3. Send your parents, grandparents, or teachers a handwritten thank you card or letter. Let them know how much you appreciate having them in your life.
4. Offer a free night of babysitting for your younger siblings, nieces and nephews, or your neighbor's kids. Parents will enjoy a night out or a couple of hours of uninterrupted sleep!
5. Mow the yard, clean up the flower beds, or around the house for an elderly neighbor. They probably have some spots around the house that may be a little harder for them to reach or get to. You would be doing a great thing for them!
6. Give your teachers, coaches, or your favorite librarian a gift card for a free cup of coffee. $5 bucks can go a long way in saying thank you with a cup of java for your favorite adult.
 Image created by Tracie Ysaguire via Canva Pro |
Easy Ideas for Parents to Show Kindness |
1. Offer to do carpool for a day, two days, or a week for another parent. I can not tell you how helpful this was for me a few times with multiple kids at different schools.
2. Volunteer some time or donate pet food to a local shelter. The local animal shelters are always in need of volunteers to play with the animals, clean up a bit, or take the doggies for walks.
3. Plan a clean up in your favorite local park, beach, or outdoor walking trails. Get your gals and guys together to take care of mother nature, then have a barbeque or pot luck afterwards to enjoy some time together.
4. Compliment or smile at a stranger. I can not tell you how many times I have let this one slide, and regretted taking action in that moment to smile or pay someone a compliment. More than likely, they probably need a small token of encouragement or kind words. More than not, if you smile at someone, even if you don't know them you will get a pleasant smile back in your direction.
5. Offer to do a grocery run for a elderly neighbor or single parent you may know. You can do it the old fashioned way, and go to the store or just have it delivered to them. Either way a simple gesture of getting a few groceries for someone can truly go a long way.
6. Make a special treat for your spouse or partner. It can be something you know they love or something you know they have been wanting to try. Do it just because you love them and want to make them smile.
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We'd love to hear your feedback on this article, especially if you try any of these suggestions to celebrate kindness in our community! Email us at mackidnewiberia@macaronikid.com.
