Nothing warms the heart more than seeing children being kind to each other. But kindness isn’t something that comes naturally and could benefit from a systematic approach when children are young. Here are some tips to help keep kindness in the forefront of your child’s mind.

1. Set an example. We’re all familiar with the adage, “Do what I do, not what I say.” You can be sure that children will notice your acts of kindness, but just in case, it’s a good idea to talk about what you are doing and why it is kind.
2. Talk about kindness, what it is, how to show kindness. Ask them how they can be kind at school, at church, at home.
3. At the end of the day, ask your child how they were kind that day.
4. Explain and practice the Golden Rule.
5. Teach children the “magic words” of please and thank you.
6. It sounds rather obvious, but be kind to your child, even if you are tired, frustrated or annoyed. Always speak in a kind way and avoid a sharp sounding tone of voice.
7. Make caring for others a priority in your household.
8. Encourage your child to care for the “underdog.”
9. Ask your child “What would that feel like?” or “How would I feel if that happened to me?”
10. Teach your child mindful speech. Simply put, this means to just pause before saying something and think how it will affect others.

There you have it….10 suggestions for instilling kindness in YOUR child.