That may be a bit dramatic: “an unkind world.” The world isn’t all bad, and there is definitely a lot of kindness out there. But it seems we keep hearing more and more about the bad — the bullying at school and online, the judgment from everyone about nearly everything, body shaming, violence, crime, constant negativity, and just lack of humanity.
I’m sure it’s always been this way, but in this digital age we’re living in with everything being shared on social media, “bad news” seems to be pushed in front of us daily just soon after it happens. Which is why I think now, more than ever, it’s important for us as moms and parents to do all we can to raise kind, passionate children.
Two small words with great meaning: be kind. Sounds simple, right? But just like math, reading, and writing, kindness is a learned skill. It, unfortunately, doesn’t just come naturally to most, and it’s something we get better at as we practice.
My husband and I always try to practice showing kindness, being kind, and speaking kindly about others, especially in front of our children. We aren’t always perfect, but we are doing our best and that’s all you can ask of anyone. So in light of the world needing more kindness, I wanted to share a few things we are doing to raise kind humans that you may be able to adapt, too! But please, if you are doing your best to also raise kind kids, share what you’re doing in the comments. There could never be enough examples of how to be nice!
Remind them daily. Every morning before the kids leave for school, my husband tells the girls, “Be kind. Try your best. Have fun.” He’s been saying this to them since they could talk, and I think it’s such an important message! We don’t expect them to be perfect by any means. Just to be kind, try their best, and have fun.
Lead by example. This is probably the most important for us, in my opinion. You know that saying, “Monkey see, monkey do”? Yeah, we all know how true that is when it comes to our kids. We are their greatest role models and examples, and it’s so important to be good ones for them. When they see us doing kind things for others, they are more likely to emulate that behavior naturally. My parents always went above and beyond for us and for others, and that has never been lost on me.
Acts of kindness. These acts can be as simple as picking up something someone dropped or telling someone they have a nice smile, or be larger (like making charitable donations or picking up someone’s coffee or dinner tab). They can be for someone in your house or for a complete stranger. Even a hug when you can sense that someone is feeling down or lending a listening ear is a beautiful act of kindness. Acts of kindness benefit everyone involved — they make you feel good in the moment and long after, and the lasting impression it can have on the recipient’s end could last a lifetime. Who wouldn’t want their child to experience that?!
Use moments as teaching moments. But also remember that not all moments are teaching moments. When they missed an opportunity to do something kind for another person, we like to gently let them know that would have been a great time to [insert whatever action could have been taken], or ask what they could have done in that situation to make a difference for that other person. On the flip side, these are kids. There will be lots of these “could have” moments, but we don’t want to overwhelm them with life lessons all day every day. Heck, we still have “could have” moments almost every day as adults!
Make small measures seem like a big deal. Sometimes the smallest actions have the biggest consequences, and we love to recognize this with excitement and praise when their actions are kind! Even if it’s just sharing a toy or letting her sister have the best seat at the table.
Think before acting. This is one of the most important lessons I personally think I’ve ever learned, and one I hope my children learn as well. You never know what someone is going through, what their day or week as been like, or what they might be dealing with. Things, even attitudes and actions, can be situational. I saw this reel on Instagram and teared up — it perfectly demonstrates this and is such a critical message. I think everyone should see it!
With the recent presidential election and so many people feeling divided, we need kindness now more than ever. No matter what political party you fall into, we should all agree that kindness is important and something everyone should display. As children, who they see running our country will be impressionable, yes, but what they see around their home and everyday life will be what they remember and emulate forever.
Next time you’re feeling sad, angry, mad, or depressed, try doing something kind for someone else! You’ll be amazed at how good it will make you feel. And also remember to be kind to yourself. That’s possibly the most important of all.
Now, just don’t come for me when my kids are fighting and refuse to share their Play-Doh, or someone gets the blue lollipop first. That’s a whole different story…
