Deck the halls with boughs of holly
Fa la la la, la la la la
’Tis the season to be jolly
Fa la la la, la la la la
Christmas is a wonderful and magical season for children and many grown-ups. Sparkling, lighted Christmas trees bring warmth and wonder to a room. We hear chattering amongst young children about writing a letter to Santa at the North Pole. The list of toys goes on and on, that every child is wishing for. Advent calendars appear, on the first day of December, as the countdown to Christmas begins for children everywhere. We find ourselves singing the old familiar Christmas carols wherever we go. As the days go on, people are filled with hope and are kinder and more giving than at any other time of the year. In some countries, they have the wonder of snow falling which just adds something special to the season.
At this wonderful time of the year, we listen to the story of the birth of Jesus. Our greatest gift from God. A gift of love and hope. It’s a wonderful celebration.
At this time of the year, we wonder how we will teach our children to give, share, be kind and generous to others, and not be entitled as they have so much. Christmas is the perfect season to teach kids about empathy and compassion for others. A great way to do this is with Random acts of kindness.
So what does a Random act of kindness mean?
It means that we put the well-being of others before our own needs without expecting anything in return. Random acts of kindness have many benefits for us as well as the other person. It has a rippling effect on the pond of life. A great video to watch that demonstrates this is Colour our world with kindness. I highly recommend you also read this delightful little book to your children, it’s called Ordinary Mary’s Extraordinary Deed by Emily Pearson.
“A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions and the roots spring up and make new trees” – Amelia Earhart
What are the benefits of Random acts of kindness?
When we do a random act of kindness, it stimulates the reward centre of the brain. It is known that one act of kindness can change someone’s entire day for the better. Besides teaching our children empathy, compassion, kindness and helpfulness there are many benefits to offer us. Here is a list of benefits.
– Kindness contributes to our sense of community, connection and belonging
– It improves our health
– Giving lessens our pain
– We experience greater joy
– Increases our self-esteem
– It improves moods
– It releases cortisol a hormone which reduces blood pressure.
“A single act of kindness may seem like such a small thing but so is the ember that starts a wildfire” – Zero Dean
What are some simple acts of kindness we can do with our children this Christmas?
1. Donate toys and clothes that are in good condition to a local charity.
2. Offer to help someone.
3. Buy lunch for a homeless person.
4. Clean the beach on your morning walk.
5. Offer to babysit for a friend.
6. Hide inspirational painted rocks at your neighbour’s doors as you go for a walk.
7. Compliment at least 3 strangers.
8. Write a Thank you note.
9. Hold the door open for someone.
10. Give a Friend a “just because” little gift.
11. Help someone.
12. Smile at everyone you meet.
13. Give someone an extra generous tip.
14. Drop off food and extra blankets at an animal shelter.
15. Make someone laugh and pay it forward.
A small act of kindness can make a big difference for everyone. It has a rippling effect on the pond. It is contagious so let us pass it on this Christmas wherever we go.
This is wishing, you all a wonderful, magical Christmas season of celebration.
