Teaching Kindness Beyond Kindness Week: Small Acts That Build Character
Kindness Week Is Just the Beginning
This week at Delphi Academy, we’re celebrating Kindness Week with special activities, but here’s the truth: kindness isn’t a one-week event. It’s a skill that needs daily practice, just like reading or math.
When parents understand how to teach kindness to children through small, consistent actions, kids don’t just become nicer, they become happier, more confident, and better learners. Let’s talk about it!
What the Science Says
Kindness makes kids happier. Their brains release feel-good chemicals that create the same joy as receiving a gift. This happiness boost isn’t temporary, it builds genuine confidence and connection with others.
Kind kids also perform better in school. They focus better, solve problems more creatively, and build friendships that make learning easier. When children feel connected to their classmates, they’re more willing to participate and take on challenges.
Finally, kindness builds character that lasts. Research shows that children who practice kindness regularly develop stronger self-esteem and handle emotions better!
5 Simple Ways to Practice Kindness at Home
Understanding how to teach kindness to children doesn’t require grand gestures. Small, daily actions create lasting habits.
1. Model It First
Kids mirror what they see. Hold doors open. Thank the service workers. Use kind words when frustrated. Your children are watching how you treat the cashier at Target just as much as they’re watching how you treat family members!
2. Name It When You See It
“I noticed you shared your toy with your sister. That was kind.” Specifically labeling kind behavior helps children recognize it and want to repeat it. You don’t have to use over-the-top praise, just simply acknowledging it works best!
3. The “Think Before You Speak” Rule
Teach kids to ask three questions before speaking:
- Is it true?
- Is it helpful?
- Is it kind?
This helps to build mindful communication in kids.
4. Practice Gratitude Together
At dinner or bedtime, share what you’re grateful for. Research shows grateful kids naturally perform more acts of kindness without being asked. So gratitude and kindness actually fuel each other!
5. Let Them Choose How to Give
Give your child ownership over how they want to give. Maybe they want to draw pictures for neighbors or share a favorite toy with a friend. When kids lead their own kind of kindness, they feel empowered and proud, and they’re more likely to continue doing it.
Start This Week
Pick ONE simple practice from above and commit to it for two weeks:
- Model one specific kind act daily
- Name kind behavior when you see it
- Practice the “three questions” rule at dinner
- Share gratitude before bed
- Let your child choose a kindness project
Remember: understanding how to teach kindness to children is about consistency, not perfection. Small actions practiced daily create children who naturally reach out to help others.
Want to learn more about character education? Discover how Delphi Academy’s approach builds both academic excellence and strong character. Schedule a tour to see our values in action.