Kindness is contagious...many of us have heard this before. In observing children who are kind, we often see parents who have made kindness a "rule" in their families. Kindness is just who these families are and what they're about. They believe all people are good (unless proven otherwise). They help those less fortunate. They do nice things for others because it’s the right thing to do.

If kindness doesn't come naturally to our own children, what can we do to instill it?

Five Ways to Inspire Kindness in Children

1. Model Kindness — If adults aren’t demonstrating kindness in difficult situations how can we expect children to do the same? This means with words and actions. At all times.
2. Celebrate Kind Deeds — Children have to know what kindness means. It’s not enough to tell them to be nice - point out their moments of being nice and praise them.
3. Discuss Kindness – When children recognize others being kind, they are more likely to be kind as well.
4. Speak Love – Make the language of your family that of peace and joy rather than anger and hate.
5. Talk About Differences — The best way to help children be more kind to each other is to help them understand how people are different. Talk about what makes everyone valuable no matter who they are. Regardless of circumstances or situation, being respectful is crucial.

How do you inspire kindness?

Adapted from Abundant Mama blog.