Today is one of those strange “non-holiday” holidays: Cheer Up the Lonely Day. I think “Befriend the Lonely,” might be a better name. Cheering up someone sounds way too fleeting—like you’re going to take a lonely person out for coffee and then not bother to see them again for a few months. Listening and befriending…
Recent events in the U.S. have reminded me how important it is that we have character education in our schools—and it needs to begin when children are very young. Empathy, kindness, trustworthiness, honesty, and compassion are more than important traits—they’re necessary for a productive society. Check out these activities on character education! Help students understand…
Sometimes sunny weather can derail the positive behaviors your students have been practicing all year long. If you’re in need of a kindness recap, consider going wild! Several wild animals species are known to exhibit kind and compassionate behaviors. Scientists have witnessed displays of caring behavior in dolphins, elephants, chimpanzees, orangutans, chickens, and mice! Dolphins…
Isn’t this Helpfulness poster adorable? It’s just one poster from a set of twelve kindness posters that is available to download FOR FREE from the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. The foundation has also provided printable monthly calendars like the one you see below. And yes—they are FREE too—and can be found below the middle…
I know you’re up for a challenge—especially one that focuses on kindness! The Great Kindness Challenge is one week (five school days) devoted to performing as many acts of kindness as possible. The official week begins this coming Monday, January 28 and concludes Friday, February 1. To participate simply register your class or school HERE. It…
I feel certain there’s a lot of trash talking taking place today given that there are a bazillion football games being played. It’s Black Friday after all. There’s sure to be some pushing and shoving on and off the field too. Shoppers searching for super-duper deals can get a bit aggressive! But I’m talking trash….
Has being kind to others become unfashionable, unhip, or uncool? Sometimes it feels that way, doesn’t it? It’s easy to get so wrapped up in the pressures of daily life that being kind to others slips through the cracks. However, when kindness becomes a habit, it doesn’t slip. It becomes something you do without even…
Do you know whose words these are? • Anyone who does anything to help a child in his life is a hero to me. • 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. • When…
Everyone has a sock, right? Well that’s all you need to honor missing children and their families May 25, National Missing Children’s Day. Spread the word. It’s a cause that’s definitely worth your time. In addition, a lesson plan pack for teaching and reminding students how to stay safe is already prepared for you! Oh,…
I tend to avoid controversial topics here at The Mailbox® blog. Getting everyone riled up is not my goal. But for this blog I’m going to skirt the edge of controversy. It’s really just the edge though…I promise. So last week students all over the U.S. walked out of class to protest gun violence. I…