Acts of Kindness for Young Children

There are many simple ways for young children to participate in acts of kindness. From the very first day of preschool, we talk about being kind and loving to each other. In September and October, we read a lot of books about feelings and friendship. In November, we read books and talked about what we are thankful for. In December, we will make gifts for special people in our lives…

Acts of Kindness for Young Children

Each morning our 3 year olds meet on our gathering rug to say good morning, listen to a story, and learn about the day’s activities. On this particular morning, we listened to a book on being thankful. Our preschool resides in a church, and the church’s groundskeeper, Nam, has always been so kind to the children. He has done a lot for our preschool, and we wanted to give him a little something to show our appreciation.

We decided to make Nam a loaf of pumpkin bread.

We each took a turn adding and mixing the ingredients and pouring it into a bread pan.

While the bread was baking, the children gave their touches to a thank you card that would accompany the bread.

After cooling, we wrapped the bread and attached the card.

When it was time to deliver the bread, we discovered that it was Nam’s week off. Just as I was thinking how we could save the bread for another week, there was Nam. Being the dedicated person that he is, he was checking on things at the church even though it was his vacation week.

Small hands carefully handed the bread to bigger hands.

I don’t know whose smile was larger, the children’s or Nam’s. What a special lesson this was for our young preschoolers. During this season of Santa and toy store advertising, we are focusing on the the joy of giving. The act of kindness towards each other.

I am joining a group of bloggers in a series called Random Acts of Kindness for Toddlers and Preschoolers. When Chelsea from Moments a Day organized this group, I immediately knew I wanted to be part of it. Chelsea’s ebook, 52 Acts of Kindness, inspired me to make this be the focus not only in December, but throughout the year.