Amy Hoffman
World Kindness Day is observed every year on November 13. This holiday might be new to some of you (it certainly was to me!), so here are some facts:
- It was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, which is a coalition of kindness organizations from around the world.
- The purpose is “to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us” (World Kindness Movement, 2020).
- Related holidays include Random Act of Kindness Day (February 17), National Do Something Nice Day (October 5), and National Be Nice Day (also October 5).
While the holiday’s organizers tend to focus on bigger events, there are many ways that we can celebrate. Quite simply, we can be kind and model being kind for the children in our lives. Sincerely compliment people. Write an encouraging note – either a note to someone you know, or an anonymous one to hang in a public place. Create a piece of art for someone you love. Spread positivity on social media.
Honestly, I think World Kindness Day should be observed every day. You can embed kindness into your curriculum, and you can consistently exercise kindness in your interactions.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes about kindness:
- “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” ~ Unknown
- “Imagine what our real neighborhoods would be like if each of us offered, as a matter of course, just one kind word to another person.” ~ Mr. Rogers
- “Have courage and be kind. Where there is kindness, there is goodness, and where there is goodness, there is magic.” ~ live-action Cinderella movie
- “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.” ~ Mr. Rogers
I encourage you to practice kindness today. Comment below with your favorite ways to help children learn to exercise kindness.
