An important element of social emotional health is kindness. In each interaction, we have the choice to be kind or unkind. Kindness is an outward expression of so many of the social emotional health qualities, such as empathy, optimism, gratitude, compassion, and perspective taking. Even small acts of kindness can ripple and make significant impacts in the world. Research has shown that kindness is contagious; doing good feels good.

To encourage kindness with children, try this printable activity. Allow the child to think about friendly wishes for himself, his family, his classroom, his school, his community, his country, and the world. This exercise engenders a sense of connectedness and the power of one to impact the many.