Random Acts of Kindness by Age
It’s never too early to teach your kids to be kind. Random acts of kindness can be so meaningful and they can be a lot of fun. The excitement of planning something nice, the thrill of being sneaky in a good way and the joy of being spontaneous are memorable. There are so many ways that kids can give back, but here is a list of activities by age group that will help you get started.
Kids Aged 2-4
Little kids can do big things too! Just because they are tiny doesn’t mean they can’t make a big difference, by doing things like:
- Helping a younger sibling by teaching them how to play a new game
- Draw a picture for a parent or friend
- Put money from their piggy bank into a charitable collection
- Go through their toys and donate things they’ve outgrown to charity
- Give a phone call or make a card for someone who has been unwell
Kids Aged 5-7
They are getting bigger and that means the size of their impact can grow. Now that they aren’t so small, they can do things like:
- Read a book to a younger sibling or friend who can’t read yet
- Share a snack with a classmate
- Tidy up the classroom for their teacher
- Write a thank you note to someone who has been kind to them
- Push a smaller kid on the swingset
Kids Aged 8-12
They grow up so fast, but their impact can be lasting. Kids aged 8-12 can do things like:
- Run a lemonade stand or bake sale to raise money for charity
- Make breakfast in bed for mom or dad
- Visit a retirement home and spend time with someone who doesn’t normally get visitors
- Put together care packages to be handed out to the homeless
- Make a craft to give as a gift to someone they love
Kids Aged 13+
Teenagers can get a bad rap. Although they are in a time of heightened self-involvement, they are still capable of reaching out of themselves to help others in spectacular ways. Teens can do things like:
- Organize the clothes they don’t wear anymore & donate them.
- Shovel an elderly or handicapped neighbor’s driveway, or walk their dog for them.
- Are they a gamer? Then play Games for Change and give back while playing.
- Hug your mother. (seriously hug your mother.)
How will your kids practice acts of kindness? We would love to hear your stories!
Wondering what to do with the kids in Metro Vancouver this weekend, or what to make for dinner? You can find it at HealthyFamilyLiving.com! From the Sunshine Coast to the Fraser Valley, we’re the best online resource for busy parents looking for practical tips for healthy, active, sustainable living. For the latest on family events, outdoor adventures, birthday parties, camps & classes and kid-approved recipes, follow us on Facebook and sign-up for our parent-approved e-newsletter!
