With the holidays approaching, it’s time for all things warm and cozy. Snuggling under big blankets and having our kids ask for a cup of hot cocoa every 17 minutes (that’s a hot chocolate reality) has become the new norm. But let’s not forget the little things that make us big and warm in our hearts: The season of random actions has come kindness. A. latest survey It reveals that Americans feel better when giving or receiving, and during the holidays, 93% of Americans report doing a favor like giving someone a compliment or saying hello to a stranger. However, acts of kindness need not be limited to the individual, as spreading kindness can also be a family event.

Laurel Sims-StewartWhen it comes to forgiveness, our children look to parents and caregivers not only for taking care of them, but also as examples for relationships, says a counselor who works with children and adults. “By emphasizing kindness, both by modeling it for our children and by participating in it, we directly contribute to their fundamental understanding of how we treat others and ourselves,” says Sims-Stewart. Our children see through our words and actions how much we value kindness and apply that kindness on a daily basis.

If you want to bring more kindness into the world, Sims-Stewart suggests holding a family meeting to discuss what you can do, saying: “Families may want to collaborate on a conversation about kindness, along with other values ​​they have, such as caring for the environment or involvement. This can be done later.” It might lead to ideas like volunteering at local organizations or helping a neighbor on trash day, and that’s what I’m here to inspire you with. holiday season Here are nine acts of kindness that you and your family can do together.

Small Actions, Big Impact

You’ve probably heard it said, “It’s the little things that matter.” And this is true when it comes to perceived “small” acts of kindness. A. survey revealed 68% of people have recently held the door open for a stranger, and it’s this kind of small act that helps both parties feel good. Keep it simple and drop a drawing for your neighbor in their mailbox, pick up trash at the neighborhood park, or line up the shopping cart for them.

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Donating old clothes or used books to your favorite charity is a great way to support your community. Spend an afternoon together and peruse closets and bookshelves to find those outgrown sweaters and picture books. Then go on a mini road trip and leave your belongings at organizations like the ones below. Goodwill, Dress for Successor Make a Wish foundations. These places have specific drop-off points and times listed on their websites. Donating your unused items increases generosity while promoting sustainability and bringing joy to others in the process.

Thank You Notes

Sending holiday thank you notes has more benefits than “drummers beating the drum,” to quote the popular holiday song. Supporting communication, writing skills, creativity, and feelings of appreciation are just a few of the “bennies” you and your children can experience. THEN, when your friend opens their homemade or store-bought card, the positive emotions rise and feel good… It makes the person feel good. Take the time to show you care and write (or draw) “thank you for being you” cards to family members, neighborhood firefighters or other first responders, nursing home residents—anyone you want to show some gratitude to!

Deliver the Goods

The socks you ordered as a last-minute birthday party gift or for your growing child will appear at your door like magic. Delivery volume continues to increase; Amazon shipping approx. 5.9 billion packages in 2023And let’s not forget UPS and our local mail carriers. Add in the holidays and it becomes a very difficult job for delivery drivers. So, for those looking to make our lives less hectic, leave some kindness at your front door or mailbox with homemade treats, fresh flowers, pre-packaged snacks or a mug full of hot coffee.

Ask a Question and Listen

It seems simple and no big deal, but have you ever watched your child’s eyes light up when you talk (about interesting things like vegetables and personal hygiene)? A survey reveals that 62% of children feel their parents are too distracted to listen; Therefore, it is very important to adapt to them. Listening is a skill that requires focus, patience, and daily practice. Psychology Today. So gift your kindness by asking a question and completely gets the answer. Listening to your family, friends, and classmates adds a deeper level of trust and value to your relationships, making everyone’s day happy and bright.

Volunteer Your Skills

The innate kindness of volunteering provides help and connection to your community, giving those who volunteer new perspectives and empathy. No task is too small when it comes to donating your time and skills. Talk to your family one morning and ask them which organizations they would like to support; Local animal shelters, nurseries, and park services have space for people who are ready to step in and serve. (No matter where you live in the US, you can find local volunteer opportunities. Here.)

Get Some FaceTime

Muffin’s “FaceyTalk” conversation with Bluey and Bingo may not have gone so well. The #1 most watched TV series in America in 2024, BluishMaking time to video chat with grandparents (or great friends) makes a difference. according to American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), 82% of grandparents said they very much enjoyed video chats with the youngest generation. Video calls help you build closer relationships, even if your kids are reading bedtime stories to their grandparents. This courtesy lets grandparents know they are an important part of the family, especially when you live five states away.

Donate Toys to Children’s Hospitals

Local and national children’s hospitals St.Jude Children’s Research Hospital They accept toy gifts to their patients. Talk to older children and explain where their unused toys go, so they can realize the extent of their abilities. If your child’s toys are well-loved, small (or large) purchases on your next Target run can give your family a kindness project when choosing a new toy. Hard plastic toys, craft books, and educational toys are great when donating.

Lose Your Coin

one of my favorites holiday traditions is to leave space in toy vending machines in markets or shopping malls for unsuspecting guests. Create a small sign that says something like “Happy Holidays: One Per Customer” and place both the sign and the coins near the vending machines. (We love an index card and a small stack of coins for this.) Using kindness to encourage the surprise gift—along with a small trinket—is the gift that keeps on giving.

Best Ways to Promote Kindness

UCLA researchers We’ve discovered that kindness is contagious, so find your favorite way to spread some joy and grace this holiday season. Your single act of kindness can cause a “ripple effect” that will bring joy to many people. And if you’re looking for the best way to encourage kindness, Sims-Stewart says it starts with you. “The number one way to encourage kindness in our homes is to make it a central part of our daily interactions,” says Sims-Stewart. “This can go a long way in helping our children learn to do the same for others.”