Homeschool Kindness Challenge
Fred Rogers said, “There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.” If you ask me, kindness is all that truly matters. However, sometimes it isn’t easy to be kind. There are times where regardless of age, we don’t want to share, or we lack the bravery to stand up for ourselves or others. However, kindness is something all of us need more of, more than ever. It is the perfect time to start a Homeschool Kindness Challenge. Let me tell you why.
Kindness, no matter how big or small, can make a huge impact, especially when done intentionally. Starting a kindness challenge in your homeschool is a great way to bond as a family while having lots of fun and teaching kids about compassion and service.
Kindness is a Behavior
Kindness is a behavior, which means it can become a habit through repetition. Now we know that our children learn best looking at the models around them and copying what they see. That means, that we need to display kindness too. Which is why it is a great idea to make this kindness challenge a family activity.
Focusing on Kindness in Your Homeschool
Kindness is just an act. However, this act spreads rapidly. Just one small smile of hello can alter the attitude of a stranger. Focusing on kindness can be life-changing for you and your family. Spreading good feelings, happiness, and even self-worth.
Kindness is for Everyone
When we think of kindness we think of helping others, donating, and volunteering. However, being kind is not just about helping others. It is also taking care of yourself, and the environment. Recycling is an act of kindness, and reciting positive affirmations is an act of kindness. It is about becoming a better person and doing something that can make you feel happier and healthier along the way.
How Can I Implement the Kindness Challenge in My Homeschool?
Setting a commitment to being more kind is a good place to start. You can come together and create a list of ideas for ways you can be kind. Remember to keep them simple, at least the majority of them. Keeping them simple will ensure that they are doable for all members of the family. No excuses. Then you probably would like a place to keep track of it all. You can jot down your acts of kindness on a calendar or a notebook. You can also download our Kindness Journal.
Ideas for Kindness
You don’t need a reason to be kind. Kindness is a choice, and the more you put it into practice, the more it will become second-nature to you. Be kind in all areas of your life, in a variety of ways.
Self-Kindness
- Meditate.
- Practice Mindfulness.
- Dance.
- Smile more often.
- Create something.
- Recite positive affirmations.
- Listen to your favorite music.
- Stop complaining for a day.
- Take 3 long slow deep breaths.
- Do something that makes you happy today.
Family Kindness
- Cook a meal.
- Do chores without being asked.
- Clean up after yourself.
- Play a game with someone in the family.
- Spend time with a family member.
- Write them a special note.
- Say thank you.
- Bake a special treat.
- Help with the dishes.
- Set the table.
- Make something handmade for someone in the family
- Surprise a family member.
- Wash the car.
Outside Kindness
- Say hello to everyone you meet.
- Ask people genuinely about how they are doing.
- Find opportunities to give compliments.
- Hold the door open for others.
- Say thank you as much as possible.
- Send happy mail.
- Bake or make something special for a friend or neighbor.
- Pay it forward (pay for someone behind you on line).
Enviornment Kindness
- Recycle.
- Use less plastic.
- Turn off the lights when you leave a room.
- Pick up litter when it crosses your path.
- Reuse things as much as possible.
- Use reusable shopping bags.
- Conserve water.
- Walk more, drive less.
Kindness Expresses Love for Ourselves and Others.
Regardless of age, we can all participate in this homeschool kindness challenge. You are never too young or too old to be kind. The challenge’s whole point is to promote kindness, make someone smile, and feel good with just one small act. Instead of telling your children to be kind and how important it is, it is better to show them. There are so many ways to express kindness. These are just a few ideas. Feel free to use what you like and leave what you don’t. Do what works for you and your family.
