Start a Kindness Club

Whoever said kindness was a one-person sport? The best part of Adventures in Kindness is that they create all kinds of opportunities to make new friends, learn about the world, and make a difference in your community.  Whether you are a teacher, principal, school counselor, educator, or after-school coordinator here are some tips on how to organize a kindness club in your community. 

1. Begin: We recommend grabbing a copy of the Adventures in Kindness to start! You can get one copy for the leader of the club, or if it’s an accessible option, several copies for each of the students who will be participating. Still waiting for your copy of the book, check out our blogs for adventures too!  

2. Set A Time: These kind adventures pair well with an existing club, as a supplemental activity or as the subject of the whole club. 

3. Select Your Projects: The book features 52 adventures that fall into the following categories:  
   animals, kids, family, health, world, mind, community, school, and troops.  
   There are many opportunities for variations of the activities based on the age level, group size, and location of the club. Find the adventures that feel most exciting, relevant, and accessible to your group. 

4. Form Pre-Learning Connections: Many of the adventures open doors for integrated learning with other core subjects taught in school. Determine if there are any supplemental lessons, learning, or connection points back to the curriculum that your group has been working on. For example, one adventure teaches how to give a kind tip at a restaurant and can be tied back to mathematical standards. Our blog offers some extended activities too.  

5. Gather Supplies: The adventures require minimal supplies, and most of the materials can be found around the classroom, and a few of the adventures, offer the opportunity to upcycle a common household or recycling item. There are even some free printouts on our website to use in support of your adventures.  

6. Go Adventure: Use the directions in the book to complete the adventure with your group. Add modifications where necessary – and HAVE FUN! 

7. Report from the Field: Each adventure includes a “Report from the Field” page, where students can write, discuss, and reflect on their experiences with the adventure. 

8. Connect: Let us know how it went! Drop us a line and tell us how your group spread kindness to your community.  

Use the above steps to begin your club or create your own plan. We want the Adventures in Kindness book to support your group in spreading kindness to your community. Need a brainstorm or curriculum support buddy? Email us, we’d be happy to help. Or check our educators page for more resources.  Happy Adventuring! 

Curious about what a kindness club looks like in action? Spotlight on our friends from the Kindness Crew in NJ: 

So many kids and families rose to the occasion to help their neighbors during COVID-19. Among them was The Kindness Crew, a small group of elementary students, their siblings, and parents who came together in December 2020 to help their Warren Township, NJ neighbors. According to Anne Isedeh, the mother of crewmembers Leisel, Lailah, Adaline, and Malia, “the creation of the group was meant to empower kids to see that they matter in their community and that they can make a difference even if it’s just by bringing a smile to someone’s face. Being kind may take work but it’s good and rewarding work.” Since starting, the Kindness Crew has spread into New York, California, and even Canada! The Kindness Crew is a great reminder that kindness can take root wherever we let it! 

3 Adventures to Practice Positive Affirmations

The words we use are powerful tools. The words we use to describe ourselves and those around us stay with us longer than we are present. This is why the power of positive affirmations are so important. A positive affirmation is a positive statement that can have long-lasting effects on the way someone thinks and feels about themselves. Oftentimes, a personal positive affirmation will help to combat a negative set of beliefs.  It is important for these affirmations to be practiced routinely, in order to create the biggest change. Now imagine the power of a positive affirmation when practiced during early childhood development.  It has the power to change the way our young people think, feel and talk about themselves. In fact, it is proven, that these sentences can help rewire their brain in a healthy way.  It also allows for young people to develop a positive mental-social-emotional mindset.  There are several ways to incorporate positive affirmations into your kind kids’ lives.  

Here are 3 adventures to make affirmations a daily part of your family and/or classroom.  

1. Affirmation Creation Station - As a family, or a classroom, facilitate each person to draw a picture of themselves. Then individually write three words to positively describe yourself, that do not relate to one's physical appearance. If this is challenging for some people, that’s okay, and allows for an opportunity to reframe a negative word to a positive word about oneself.  For example: If your student says, I am kind of strong or kind of smart, you can reframe it for them and invite them to own it.  This would change that to “I am Smart!” and “I am Strong!” From these three words, used to describe themselves, write three positive affirmations. Then write them on stickie notes and place on a bedroom mirror, or in a prominent place in their daily routine so that they are reminded of these affirmations.  Bonus: Add saying your affirmations as a family into your morning routine, perhaps on the way to school or at the beginning of the class.  

1. ABCs: Affirm, Boost, Cheer– Try this positively fun game with the whole family, or even your whole class! If someone happens to say something negative about themselves, it is the other person, in the teams’ job to pause and share a positive affirmation back to oppose the negative statement. For example, if someone says, “I’m stupid,” the team might share back “You are smart.” The person then has to repeat this phrase, “I am smart!” about themselves 10 times. When they complete the ten, the group must cheer enthusiastically. This is best in small groups or teams. You can add a layer of competition to it, to see whoever recognizes the opportunity for a positive affirmation first, and add a fun prize for the person who creates the most positive statements about others.  

1. Spread Positive Affirmations Like Confetti – The only thing better than saying a positive affirmation to yourself, is saying or giving it to someone else.  We’ve given you some to get you started.  Check out this free printable that includes over 16 positive affirmation cards, that you can print out for your kind kid.  When they are in a safe environment, challenge them to give out an affirmation each day to a someone they know who might need encouragement, someone they want to share kindness with, or even give it anonymously to someone who they think could use a random act of kindness. Print out enough for the whole family or your whole classroom!  

Looking for more adventures like these? Our Adventures in Kindness book contains  52+ impactful adventures for kids, to make kindness and compassion a daily practice and check our Everyday Kindness Kit even more inspiration for Summer activities!  Use code KINDSUMMER22 to receive a free gift with your purchase! 

6 Arts & Crafts to Spread Kindness

Summer is here! And with it, brings many opportunities for creative acts of kindness. To get you started, here are some of our favorite summer kindness adventures that are full of arts and crafts.  

1. Spread Some Happiness!  

Ask your kind kid if they have noticed, if there is anyone that they have seen who might be having trouble making friends (perhaps at summer camp) or if a neighbor or family member has been feeling blue. If so, then send them a happiness kit. Start with an old shoebox, mug, or a spare basket. (Maybe you can rescue a cardboard box before it makes it to your recycling bin!) Next, prompt your kid to fill it with a few things that you think might bring this person joy. Consider including a joke book, a mug with a smiley face on it, some fresh fruit, a kindness rock (see Adventure #46) or other items they think the person might enjoy. Finish it off with a handwritten note of kindness to the person who is feeling blue. When it’s all ready, have your kind kid leave it in a place where they know their friend will find it.  

Check out Adventure 10 in the book or this free printable for more inspiration and information on this adventure!  

2. Make Homemade Bird Feeders  

If your kind kid enjoys hearing the birds chirp outside your window each morning, this next adventure’s for you. Making homemade bird feeders is a fun way to get to know which birds are native to your area and a great way to help little winged friends when their food sources are scarce in the wintertime. This adventure’s good for the environment too, as bird feeders can be made using all-natural items from your yard or recycle bin.  

Check out Adventure 27 in the Adventures in Kindness book or this free printable for more details on this adventure!  

3. Write a Letter and Draw a Picture to the Author of Your Favorite Book  

There’s nothing more special than telling someone how much they mean to you. If there’s a book that your kind kid just loves or a book that they hoped would never end, set up an activity for them to write a letter to that author and tell them how their book made them feel. You can usually find the mailing or email address for the author in the front or back of the book, alongside the name of the publishing company. If that doesn’t work, you can email the publisher and ask if they can pass your letter on to the author.  

Check out Adventure 31 in the ‘Adventures in Kindness’ book for more details on this adventure! 

4. Interview an Older Relative or Neighbor About Their Life Experiences  

Support your kind kid in answering this question, “have you ever felt lonely?” For many aging adults—who may not have friends or family living nearby, or who may no longer drive—this is a very common feeling, and it’s often referred to as social isolation. Some reports note that close to 50 percent of older adults experience social isolation, which can lead to a greater number of falls and broken bones, hospitalizations, and many other health issues. But, by every account, a sense of community can reduce the feeling of social isolation. To help with this problem, we suggest inviting your kind kid to talk with an older person and interview them.  

We suggest that your kid chooses a person at least 65 years old. Then, they can come up with a list of questions. They can ask questions about their subject’s experiences as a child, as a young adult, and as an older adult. During the interview, they can record the interview using a journal or an audio recorder to make sure they have captured everything that their subject shares. Then they can write or type up the interview. Your kind kid can even give them a copy when they are done—the interviewee will probably like that it is written down! Feel free to take pictures, if they are comfortable with it or draw pictures of the stories and events that they described. Not only is this a great way to learn about people who have lived experiences different from your own, but it’s a kind gesture for someone who might live alone and may not have as many chances to socialize with family and friends. Here are some questions that might help to guide your interview.  

Check out Adventure 38 in the ‘Adventures in Kindness’ book for more information on this adventure! 

5. Spread Joy with Kindness Rocks  

Does your kind kid love to spread happiness around like sunshine? This is a simple adventure that can do just that! Start by heading outside and collecting some small, smooth rocks from around your yard or neighborhood. Wash and dry them well and then cover them with a full coat of paint. When the paint has dried, use a separate paint color or marker to add words of happiness and encouragement to each rock, such as “you are loved,” “kindness rocks,” “today’s the day,” “stay positive,” or “be brave.” Once the rocks are ready, your kid can deliver them to people in and around your school, neighborhood, or camp: teachers, bus drivers, school counselors and friends. They can either leave them in places where their friends and family will find them or give them directly as gifts. Either way, they'll know that they are spreading sunshine to anyone on the receiving end.  

Check out Adventure 46 in the ‘Adventures in Kindness’ book for more information on this adventure! 

6. Write a Thank You Letter to Overseas Troops or First Responders  

Discuss with your kid, if they have ever been far from home and felt homesick, just wishing they could be in their bed or around their favorite things. For members of our military as well as first responders to natural disasters, they are often far from home for very long periods of time and homesickness is common. That’s why we love Operation Gratitude which has delivered more than 2.5 million care packages and gratitude boxes to active members of the military, veterans, first responders, and military families since its founding. Each care package is filled with items donated by grateful Americans and service-friendly companies who want to express their support for heroes serving overseas and here at home. Your kid can then work with your family or community to host an Operation Gratitude collection and show their thanks in a special way to service members overseas and first responders here at home. Your kind kid can write a letter or draw a picture to be included with these packages and spread some kindness all over the world!

Check out Adventure 53 in the ‘Adventures in Kindness’ book or more details on this adventure! 

Looking for more adventures like these? Our Adventures in Kindness book contains  52+ impactful adventures for kids, to make kindness and compassion a daily practice and check our Everyday Kindness Kit even more inspiration for Summer activities!  Use code KINDSUMMER22 to receive a free gift with your purchase!   

Mental Health Resources for Kids and Families

May might mark the official Mental Health Month, but here at Adventures in Kindness, we think every month can be Mental Health Month, as now, more than ever, prioritizing the mental health of our young and growing kids is essential for their well-being.   

In addition to the day-to-day factors that can contribute to our health- in good and bad ways, there are many heavy events occurring in our communities and world that make it even more important to keep the management of our kids’ mental health top of mind.  

We’ve compiled this list of supportive resources to discuss mental health, to support in processing trauma, and to connect families with experts who can support them.    

1. Youth Mental Health - A comprehensive resource from Mental Health America that share the signs of a mental health problem, ways to promote mental health, and actions adults can take to support youth mental health.  

2. The California Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids Project – From the Child Minds Institute, this is a series of free, evidence-based video and print resources that caregivers and educators can use to teach their kids critical mental health and coping skills. 

3. Digital Shareables on Child and Adolescent Mental Health – The National Institute for Mental Health offers these resources to share, learn from, and use to support your family’s mental health and wellness, including videos and books for kids.  

4. Age-Related Reactions to Traumatic Events -  A resource from The National Child Traumatic Stress Network to support in understanding how children experience traumatic events and how these children express their lingering distress over the experience, parents, physicians, communities, and schools can respond to their children and help them through this challenging time.  

5. Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers - A resource from the National Association of School Psychologists to support parents and school personnel as they help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears. 

6. Behavioral Health and Wellness Resources for Children and Families – A comprehensive list of national resources, from the Child Welfare Information Gateway, that provide information and services that support the physical and behavioral health of children and families. 

7. Mental Health Resources for Families from The Youth Mental Health Project that include crisis hotlines, youth-friendly resources, and resources for parents and teens. 

If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trained crisis workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 800-273-TALK (8255). 

7 Outdoor Activities for a Summer of Kindness

Ah, Summer. The days get longer and the opportunities for practicing kindness are heating up! 

Below you will find 7 adventures that all center around getting outdoors in nature and finding ways to stay active, all while spreading kindness this Summer! 

1) Take our Home Sweet Home Pledge to Protect the Earth 

Unfortunately, the earth is experiencing the effects of global warming faster than ever in history, which means it is all of our jobs to protect and care for Mother Earth. Join us at Adventures in Kindness to take the Home Sweet Home pledge and start doing at least one of these activities this week. Challenge you and your kind kid to keep up this adventure for the rest of this year! Download the pledge in the resources section of our website. 

See Adventure #24 in the book for more info on this adventure & for the report from the field! 

2) Run, Walk, Bike, or Scoot for a Cause 

If your kid loves being kind and loves to run or bike, this adventure is for your family. 

Make your next run or bike ride more meaningful by signing up for a road race that raises awareness and funds for a cause that is important to you.  

Bonus: Your kid may find some lifelong friends in the process. 

Use Adventure #16 in the book for more info on this adventure & for the report from the field! 

3) Host a Community Dog Wash 

Who doesn’t love a squeaky clean pup? Work with your kind kid to gather your friends or family members to host a one-day community dog wash, where four-legged friends can get a bath in exchange for a donation such as a toy or towel for a local shelter or humane society. You can set up stations for dog owners to wash their own dogs or you can offer to wash the dogs. Just make sure the dog’s owner is present to keep the animal on a leash and under control. 

Find Adventure #5 in the book for more info on what you will need for this adventure. 

4) Offer to Walk or Visit with the Pet of an Older Friend or Relative 

Spending time with animals will not only bring your kind kid joy, comfort and companionship, but will help our kids learn how to better care for each other, too.  

Use Adventure #4 in the book for more info on this adventure & for the report from the field! 

5) Learn at Least One New Active Sport  

One job our kids have —and it’s a fun one—is that you get to figure out which activities they like best. And the good news is, there’s no shortage of sports to learn, so why not take up a new one this year?  

See Adventure #20 in the book for the full list of sports for this adventure. 

6) Dig into the Soil + Start a Garden 

Has your kid ever examined the types of bushes or flowers that grow in your yard? They’re very likely “native” to your neck of the woods, meaning that they have adapted to your local climate and soil conditions. This is an opportunity for your kid to learn that native plants and flowers are important because they provide nectar, pollen, and seeds that serve as food for native butterflies, insects, birds, and other animals. When non-native plants are introduced to an area, they have a lower likelihood of survival, and they will often require pest control to survive.  

Start this adventure by supporting your kid with creating a list of ten plants that are local to your area. Then, plant one of them around your house or apartment. We love butterflies, so we planted one of the many species of milkweed plant that is native to our home state of Maryland. We loved seeing caterpillars crawl along the leaves and lay their eggs, and we were able to watch the entire transformation process, from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly, right from our kitchen window!  

Find Adventure #23 in the book for more info about native plants! 

7) Walk or Bike to All Nearby Locations  

Just like conserving energy in your home is an important part in caring for our planet, so too is thinking about your personal carbon footprint. How much is your family driving each week, and can you replace any of those drives with different forms of transportation, such as walking or biking? This one’s not always possible, depending on where you live, but if you find that your family relies on the car for daily trips to the local grocery store or market, consider suggesting that you condense those four or five trips a week into two, or that you walk or bike to the market one day instead of driving. 

Use Adventure #25 in the book for more info on this adventure & for the report from the field! 

Looking for more adventures like these? Our Adventures in Kindness book contains  52+ impactful adventures for kids, to make kindness and compassion a daily practice and check our Everyday Kindness Kit even more inspiration for Summer activities!  Use code KINDSUMMER22 for free shipping and receive a free gift with your purchase!  

5 Kind Ways to Thank Teachers During Teacher Appreciation Week

“A teacher plants the seeds of knowledge, sprinkles them with love, and patiently nurtures their growth to produce tomorrow’s dreams.”- Unknown 

When I reflect on the teachers in my life, there are many who made a significant impact on who I am: someone who really supported my ideas and growth, taught a subject with great passion, or helped run an after-school club with love.  

The impact and importance that teachers have on students is immeasurable. So, as we near the end of the school year (already?!) and Teacher Appreciation Week (the first week of May), here are 5 activities and gift ideas to help celebrate the amazing educators in your kids’ lives.  

1. Write a note to a teacher to tell them how much they mean to you.  

There is nothing more special than telling someone how much they mean to you. If your child has a teacher who has inspired them, support them by writing a note of gratitude. Prompts for writing could include:  

• “Write three of your favorite things that you did this year with your teacher.” 

• “What are 2 characteristics that you really like about your teacher?” 

• “When was a time your teacher made you feel happy?” 

 For younger kids, drawing a picture is also great! You can use prompts like:  

• “Let’s draw a picture of you and your teacher”  

• “What are your teacher’s favorite things and colors?”  

Then decide together whether your child would like to give the note anonymously or sign their name! 

2. Grow a plant for a teacher.  

April showers bring May flowers! It’s the perfect time to grow a native plant in a small pot or jar. Kids can help lead the way in deciding which plant, decorating the pot, and planting the seeds. Once it has grown a sprout or a full plant, the student can gift it to their teacher to brighten up their classroom. Check out Adventure #23 in the 2nd Edition book: Dig into the Soil + Start A Garden to learn more about this activity and the plants native to your area.  

3. Spread joy with a kindness rock. 

 Would you like to spread happiness around like sunshine? Start by heading outside and collecting some small, smooth rocks from around your yard or neighborhood. Wash and dry them well, and then cover them with a full coat of paint. When the paint has dried, use a separate paint color or marker to add words of happiness and encouragement to each rock, such as “you are loved,” “kindness rocks,” “thank you,” “stay positive,” or “you matter.” Once the rocks are ready, your kid can deliver them to their teachers and administrators as a thank you! Check out Adventure #46 in the 2nd Edition book: Spread Joy With Kindness Rocks to learn more about this activity and for more inspiration for your rocks! 

4. Buy some extra classroom supplies! 

Did you know that teachers often spend their own money on supplies and items for the classroom? The next time you are shopping with your kid, let them pick out a few extra boxes of tissues or packages of pencils to bring back to the classroom. Some teachers even have wish lists of supplies that they could use.  It is a gift for the whole class, too!  

5. Gift them a book to add to their classroom library. 

Donate a copy of your kid’s favorite book to the classroom for their library. It’s the gift that keeps on giving! And if your kid loves the Adventures in Kindness activities, it makes a great resource for teachers.  We even have a Teacher Bundle available that includes other teacher and classroom resources. Whichever book you choose to give, you will be supporting life-long learning, reading, and kindness! 

We hope you enjoyed these activities to show appreciation of the educators in your child’s life! Thank you for helping us to spread kindness to the many amazing educators in our community this month, and every month.  

Did you like these activities? If so, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book and use code: THANKSTEACH for free shipping AND a special gift to share with your teacher!

3 Ways for Kind Kids to Support Ukraine

With world events weighing heavy on our minds, people of all ages can do a world of good through meaningful acts of kindness.

There is a lot going on in the world. Some moments feel quite heavy, and I can get lost in those feelings. As an educator, I am observing that young people are also feeling the weight of the world at times, and that is an important thing to acknowledge. 

As I prepared for potential questions that I might receive from students in my class, I discovered these great resources from PBS and APA that support families and educators in talking and processing the war in Ukraine with young people. One of many steps they suggest is to turn to action and find ways to support Ukraine. 

It reminded me of a quote that I love from Mr. Rogers: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” So, I will look for the helpers and try my best to be one, too. And I thought about what Adventures in Kindness’ co-author, Sophia Fox says: “One kind act matters, but many kind acts can change the world.”  

That said, here are some Sophia-inspired activities to support Ukraine. We hope you will find these meaningful activities to partake in as a family or bring into the classroom. I know I’ll be implementing a few in my class this week, as we all process what is occurring a continent away.  

Start a Family or Classroom Giving Jar 

This activity is great to do as a family or as a class.  

1. Find an empty jar—it can be a pickle jar, a peanut butter jar, a Mason jar, or any other jar you have lying around. That’s your Giving Jar.  

2. Identify with your child or students, which organization you would like to support. 

To support Ukraine here are a few suggestions of places to donate: 

• UNICEF - To supports efforts to address the dual crises of conflict and COVID-19 and protect children in Ukraine 

• International Rescue Committee - To support in providing food, medical care and emergency support services to families whose lives are shattered by conflict in countries like Ukraine, Afghanistan, Syria, and Yemen 

• Ukrainian Red Cross - To support those in need, affected by armed conflict, blood collection, mobilization of volunteers and resources, and emergency activities 

(Global Citizen also has a great list of additional ways to help organizations in need of donations). 

3. Set a timeline- such as a week, or month, and make it a routine to place a few pennies or a few dollars—anything considered spare change— in the jar at the end of each day. At the end of the time period, make a donation to your selected nonprofit, as a group. Every bit helps! 

Ideas to increase the impact:  

• Ask a few neighbors if they would like to join in on collecting their spare change for the week in support of the organization. Combine your efforts together to form one donation.  

• If you are doing this activity as a class, ask your school administrators if there is a way to do it as a full school or group! 

Show Your Support 

You may have seen people around the world showing support for Ukraine by sharing the Ukrainian flag, images of sunflowers (Ukraine’s national flower), and even dressing in yellow and blue!  

Join in on showing your support by facilitating this activity in your classroom or with your child: 

• Create a Poster in Support of Ukraine: Draw a picture that incorporates a sunflower, the Ukrainian flag, or the flag’s colors.  You can even write a message of encouragement on it, such as “Support Ukraine” or “Peace.” Then, hang it in your house window, around your neighborhood, or in your classroom.  

• Sidewalk Support: Get out your favorite sidewalk chalk and draw messages of support and images of support for Ukraine on the sidewalk in your neighborhood or on the playground.  

Spread Kindness in Your Corner of the World 

Adventures in Kindness’ co-author, Sophia Fox says, “One kind act matters, but many kind acts can change the world.” While we may not always be able to perform a direct random act of kindness for someone in another country, we can spread one in our own community. And you never know the ripple effect that an act of kindness can have. In fact, we like to think it is infectious! With your kid or your class, select a random act of kindness, or a few, that you all can do to brighten up your corner of the world.  

Here are a few suggestions: 

• Write a letter of encouragement for a friend feeling down 

• Paint a picture and give it to someone you appreciate 

• Help a neighbor or community garden weed as they prepare for spring 

• Volunteer to help at a nonprofit event 

• Create your own: kind kid activists are great at finding opportunities to spread kindness! 

However you choose to show support, we hope you will join Adventures in Kindness in sending a lot of love to Ukraine and spreading some kindness in their honor. We would love to hear how you and your young people decided to show support! Drop us a line at hello@adventuresinkindness.com or engage with us on Pinterest to tell us how you are brightening up your corner of the world. Thank YOU for being an important helper in this world! 

Be sure to check out the fun Adventures in Kindness book for more resources on cultivating kindness at home and in the classroom. 

9 Girl-Inspired Ways to Celebrate Women’s History Month (Activities Included!)

Women's History Month is a perfect time to introduce your kids to great women throughout history- including some they may not naturally learn about in their history books—and to take actions that follow in their powerful footsteps.

At Adventures in Kindness, we love to celebrate Women's History Month. After all, we’re a women- and girl-led team of authors and illustrator, who care about inspiring courage, bravery, agency and empathy in one another and in our communities. We rely on the stories of women from our past and present day to show how sometimes big, and sometimes small, acts of kindness have in fact changed the world—and how our kids have it in their power to do the same. 

So, for the 31 days of March, we’ve got 31 opportunities to highlight contributions of women who have made and continue to make contributions to our society, through their activism, and kind acts.  This year, we turned to co-author Sophia (11) for her insights on the top 9 women and girls that inspire her.

Each kindness activist that we highlight below corresponds with a section of the book that Sophia and I wrote, called Adventures in Kindness. We wrote that book (and corresponding journal) together when she was in elementary school, and designed it with the help of our amazing illustrator (and Sophia’s auntie Nichole Wong Forti) as a resources and tool to help kids practice kindness and empathy every day.  If you’re looking for a resource to bring kindness into your classroom, or to make kindness a daily practice at home, we hope you’ll check it out over at www.AdventuresinKindness.com. Even better- every book sold on our site supports the nonprofits featured in our book, so it’s a kind act in itself!

We think you’ll find, in completing any of the below activities, or the other activities in the book, is a simple yet powerful way to remind kids (and their caring adults) how good it can feel to focus on kind acts each day.

Kindness Activist #1 Jane Goodall

A Kindness Activist for Animals

Jane Goodall (age 89) is an English primatologist and anthropologist, and the world's foremost expert on chimpanzees, Goodall is best known for her 60-year study of social and family interactions of wild chimpanzees since she first went to Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania in 1960, where she witnessed human-like behaviors among chimpanzees, In April 2002, she was named a UN Messenger of Peace. Goodall is an honorary member of the World Future Council.

Sophia and I love Jane Goodall because of her deep passion and commitment to study chimpanzees, even when everyone around her told her it wasn’t a suitable career choice for a young woman.  But she persevered, and as a result, her research has helped humans better understand chimpanzees, and one another—perhaps more than any other research in history.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Jane Goodall:  Check out Adventure #4 in the book: Offer to Walk or Visit with the Pet of an Older Friend or Relative.  Spending time with animals will not only bring you joy, comfort and companionship, but will help our kids learn how to better care for each other, too.

Kindness Activist #2: Stella Bowles

A Kind Activist for Kids 

Stella Marguerite Bowles (age 18) is a Canadian environmentalist, author, and the youngest recipient of the Order of Nova Scotia. As an advocate for youth activism, Stella co-wrote a book for children titled My River: Cleaning up the LaHave River with Anne Laurel Carter, but it started with a desire to swim.  Stella wanted to swim in the LaHave River, but her mother said the water was contaminated by illegal pipes that flush unprocessed sewage directly into the river. One of Stella’s teachers, Dr. David Maxwell, helped her start testing bacteria levels in water samples from the river. Stella drew national attention when she reported the bacterial pollution levels that she measured. Stella’s project influenced the allocation of $15.7 million from federal, provincial, and municipal governments to remove the straight pipes by 2023.

Sophia introduced me to Stella, after having done her own research on this incredible climate activist. She thought it was so powerful to hear that Stella, at age 11 saw an issue in her town, and took action to address it.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Stella Bowles: Check out Adventure #2, scrap single-use plastic.  It’s no secret how important clean water is to our survival, but millions of pounds of trash end up in our oceans each year. Invite your kind kid to do their part, and to act in the spirit of Stella Bowles, starting this month.

Kindness Activist #3 Allyson Felix

A Kind Activist for Family

Allyson Michelle Felix (age 37) is one of the world greatest track and field athletes, a ten-time U.S. national champion and a three-time world champion, but it is her advocacy off the track that has inspired us the most. Felix, along with Alysia Montaño and Kara Goucher, is credited with stirring public outcry over Nike's refusal to guarantee salary protections for its pregnant athletes, prompting the Nike to expand its maternal policy in 2019.  Two years after her departure from Nike, the athlete turned entrepreneur launched her own footwear company, Saysh, in June 2021.

We love Allyson’s story because it reminds us that you should never have to choose between your career and your family. Allyson Felix wanted to be an Olympian and a mom, but she needed her sponsors to support her in that effort.  Because of her advocacy, she paved the way for hundreds of other Olympians—and thousands of women athletes everywhere— to have access to better maternity and family leave policies.  

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Allyson Felix: Check out Adventure 13, Picture Your Ideal World, and What Stands in the Way of Achieving it. Sometimes the best way to start practicing kindness is to understand where the greatest injustices lie. Consider what unfair practices might exist in your community or town and think about what you could do about them.

Kindness Activist #4: Simone Biles

A kind activist for health

Simone Biles (age 24) is an American artistic gymnast. With a combined total of 32 Olympic and World Championship medals, Biles is tied as the most decorated gymnast of all time. Biles' seven Olympic medals also ties Shannon Miller for the most Olympic medals won by an American gymnast. But its her story that moves us most:

“My journey to the 2016 Olympics started on a daycare field trip. You might think that going from a girl in foster care to being an Olympic gold medalist in Rio de Janeiro is the most amazing part of my journey. It isn’t. It’s how I got there — or more accurately, who got me there — that is most miraculous.”

Simone Biles’ story is one of courage, big dreams and family. It’s also a story about prioritizing your personal health when the world around us can feel weighty and hard. Her commitment and focus on her physical health and mental wellness, and the importance of having a caring, supportive community, is a great reminder during these challenging days.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Simone Biles: Check out Adventure 16: Run, Walk, Bike, or Scoot for a Cause. If you love being kind and you love to run or bike, this adventure’s for you.

Make your next run or bike ride more meaningful by signing up for a road race that raises awareness and funds for a cause that is important to you. Bonus: You may find some lifelong friends in the process.

Kindness Activist #5 Greta Thunburg

A Kindness Activist for our World

Greta Tintin Eleonora Ernman Thunberg (age 19) is a Swedish environmental activist who is known for challenging world leaders to take immediate action for climate change mitigation. Thunberg's activism began when she persuaded her parents to adopt lifestyle choices that reduced their own carbon footprint. What started as a one-person protest in the form of a weekly vigil outside her country’s parliament in 2018, has grown into #FridaysForFuture—an international movement supported by more than a million students in 160 countries—including in Sophia’s middle school!

There’s so much to live about Greta’s story, but for us, it’s how the power of her convictions have inspired millions of young people to join her movement. And how that Sophia gets to see it up close in her own school, it really has reinforced that one person can in fact make an enormous impact in the world.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Greta Thunberg: Check out Adventure 24: Take our Home Sweet Home Pledge to Protect the Earth. Unfortunately, the earth is experiencing the effects of global warming faster than ever in history, which means it is all of our jobs to protect and care for Mother Earth. Join us at Adventures in Kindness to take the Home Sweet Home pledge and start doing at least one of these activities this week. Challenge yourself to keep up this adventure for the rest of this year!  Download the pledge in the resources section of our website.

Kindness Activist #6: Reshma Saujni

A Kind Activist for Mind

Reshma Saujani (age 47)  began her career as an attorney and activist. In 2010, she entered politics as the first Indian American woman to run for U.S. Congress. During the race, Reshma visited local schools and saw the gender gap in computing classes firsthand, which led her to start the nonprofit, Girls Who Code, which aims to increase the number of women in computer science and close the gender employment difference in that field.

Reshma is also the author of Brave, Not Perfect–a movement rooted in her experience, TedTalk, book, and podcast encouraging women to live their bravest, fullest lives.

I’ve long known about Girls Who Code, but hadn’t learned about its founder until Sophia introduced me to her.  There is so much power in Reshma’s experience and story, that offer great reminders to kids that possibilities to improve the world exist everywhere—and sometimes we’ll find them where we least expect.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Reshma Saujani : Check out Adventure 35: Learn to Say Hello in a New Language. Just like Coding is an important language, so too is it important to learn languages as a way of connecting with people from different background and bridging divides. By expanding the languages you speak, rather than limiting yourself to one single language, you’ll be far more able to connect with those in your community who speak different languages. Learning a language is no fun if you can’t use it, so try out your new words on your friends and family.

Kindness Activist #7: Kamala Harris

A Kind Activist for the Community

Kamala Devi Harris (age 57) is an American politician and attorney who is the 49th and current vice president of the United States. She is the first female vice president and the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history, as well as the first African American and first Asian American vice president. 

Harris is the daughter of an Indian mother and Jamaican father and is the second Black woman and first South Asian American senator in history. She is the author of a memoir, "The Truths We Hold: An American Journey," and a children's book, "Superheroes Are Everywhere." Harris credits her late mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, with empowering her to look for solutions.

"I was raised that, when you see a problem, you don't complain about it, you go and do something about it," Harris said in an interview.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Vice President Harris: Check out Adventure 43: Email an elected official about a political topic. Do you know the names of the people in charge of your local government? If not, then let’s start this adventure by researching the names of your elected representatives. Then, consider researching the issues that each elected official is actively working on, and write a letter to at least one of them, with a question or feedback about how you think they’re doing. Elected officials need to hear from their community and the voices of kids are especially important to them. A handwritten note from a child can be more powerful than a hundred email messages from adults.

Kindness Activist #8: Malala Yousafzai Malik

A Kind Activist for Education

Malala Yousafzai Malik (age 25), often referred to as Malala, is a Pakistani activist for female education and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. She is also the world's youngest Nobel Prize laureate, and second Pakistani to ever receive a Nobel Prize. She is known for human rights advocacy, especially the education of women and children in her native Swat Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northwest Pakistan, where the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan had at times banned girls from attending school. Her advocacy has grown into an international movement, and according to former Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, she has become the country's "most prominent citizen".

Malala’s story has long resonated with Sophia, and has been the basis of many dinnertime conversations in our house, especially when we realize that with the current rate of progress, we’re still 100 years away from education for all girls.  Malala’s story is about more than a love of education, but a love for one another, and that education should always be available to those who want it.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Malala: Check out Adventure 47: Push Back Against Bullying.  As kindness activists, there are things we can do everyday to help create spaces that are free of hate, and more full of kindness. For this adventure, we ask you to check out a new online video series for kids that celebrates helps teach kids step to safely intervene when you see someone being bullied. The video series was developed by Woori Show + Hollaback and it’s a great resource to check out and share.  Watch out the five-part video.

Kindness Activist #9 Carolyn Blashek

A Kind Activist for the Troops

Carolyn Blashek (age 67) is the founder of Operation Gratitude. In late 2001, after witnessing the September 11 terrorist attacks on America, Carolyn started volunteering at the military lounge at Los Angeles airport. While tending to the care of a distraught Active Duty service member about to deploy, her deeply personal desire to say "Thank You" has spread like wildfire across California, the country and now halfway around the world.

Right then, and ever since, Blashek realized that when bullets are flying, troops must believe that someone at home cares about them as an individual. That’s when Operation Gratitude was born. While this grassroots movement started in Blashek’s living room, it now encompasses Americans all over the country donating items and writing letters to those who serve.

We first started supporting Operation Gratitude almost 15 years ago, and we featured their work in our book.  Carolyn’s simple, yet profound commitment to do more than say “thank you” has inspired our family to think of the many ways we can support our troops and first responders, too.

A kindness activity you can do in the spirit of Carolyn: Check out Adventure 53: Write a Thank You Letter to Overseas Troops or First Responders.  Operation Gratitude has now delivered more than 2.5 million care packages and gratitude boxes to active members of the military, veterans, first responders, and military families since its founding. Make this the week, that you add your letter to the mix.

We hope you loved this blog, and learning about the women who have inspired kind acts in us. If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more!

3 Activities to Celebrate and Honor Black History Month - Every Month

As we near the end of February, we are reminded of the importance of celebrating, honoring, and appreciating the contributions, achievements, and incredible impact that the Black community has in our world. While we take time to celebrate this during the month of February, we hope that you will join Adventures in Kindness in these types of activities all year long.   

Discover: Discover how kids can change the world! Check out this video from Scholastic with your kids to learn more about how these amazing kids changed the world in very important ways during the civil rights movement.  

Explore: Take a trip through history in your town. With your kids, learn about the Black artists, activists, business owners, creators, and authors who are from your area, and who have contributed positively and powerfully to the place you call home. Ask your child what impact they would hope to make on their community, and what they’ll remember about the people and stories they learned about this month. 

Dream: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. inspired many people to dream of a better world, and he took actions to bring remarkable good to our nation. Work with your kids to make a list of three dreams they have for the world. Next to each dream, work together to write one way that they can work toward that dream in the coming year.

Thank you for participating in these activities.  We’d love to hear what you discovered or dreamed about. Drop us a line at hello@adventuresinkindness.com or engage with us on Pinterest!   If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more!

Until then, may all your adventures be kind ones!  

Adventures in Kindness’ March for Kindness

Hip Hip Hooray! It's February 17, and if you’re reading this blog you probably know why we’re so excited. It’s National Random Acts of Kindness Day, and here at Adventures in Kindness, we’ve got a lot of kind acts in the works. So many, in fact, that we’re hoping you and your kind kids will choose to come on an adventure with us, as we set off on Adventures in Kindness’ March for Kindness campaign. 

Between February 17 -March 31, 2022, use the inspiration and resources we’ll provide to bring kindness into your community. And for those of you who like a little peer-to-peer challenge, we hope you’ll join us in completing at least ten adventures by the end of this campaign.  If you do (it’s not hard and it will feel SO good in the process!) then we’ll send you an extra-special discount code for our Adventures in Kindness online store. Let us know you’re participating by engaging with our campaign pins on Pinterest, or by dropping us a note at hello@adventuresinkindness.com 

If you’re looking for more details on the adventures, keep on reading! 

Please note: the following adventures are all excerpts from our award-winning action/adventure book, Adventures in Kindness, now available in a newly expanded second edition. Grab your signed copy now, and 20% of your order will support one of our featured nonprofit partners. 

Now, let’s go on an adventure! 

1. Visit an older neighbor.  - Pin Release 02/17 

Have you ever felt lonely? For many aging adults—who may not have friends or family living nearby, or who may no longer drive—this is a very common feeling, and it’s often referred to as social isolation. To combat isolation, and to practice care for our neighbors, we invite you to visit with an older neighbor, and take the opportunity to learn more about their life experiences.   Ask about their life as a child, as a young adult, and as an older adult. Record the interview using a journal or an audio recorder to make sure you capture everything that your subject shares, and then write or type up your interview. Give them a copy when you’re done—they might like it written down! Not only is this a great way to learn about people who have lived experiences different from your own, but it’s a kind gesture for someone who might live alone and may not have as many chances to socialize with family and friends.  

Check out the Adventures in Kindness book for an interview guide that further supports this adventure. 

2. Head out on a nature walk- and leave the path cleaner than you found it. - Pinterest Release 02/18 

Going on a nature adventure is a fun and easy way to be kind to the planet. The best part is you can start right where you are, since nature is all around us! Get yourself a magnifying glass, a notebook, and pencil to get this adventure going. First, take a walk around the perimeter of your home or neighborhood. Notice the kinds of plants, flowers, rocks, and soil that exist there. Then, take a second lap, looking even closer under the leaves to examine the insects, soil, and animals that live in the area. Get down on your hands and knees and look closely. You’ll be amazed how much there is to find in every square of nature. Your job on this adventure is to leave any place you visit cleaner than the way you found it.  

3. Try a new fruit or vegetable this week. - Pinterest Release 02/21 

You may have a favorite food, but the best choice is to eat a lot of different foods and to always try new things. If you eat different foods, you’re more likely to get the nutrients your body needs to grow strong and to stay healthy. On your next trip to your local market, take a slow walk through the produce aisle and examine all the different fruits and vegetables that you’ve never tasted before. Consider trying at least one new type of fruit or vegetable each week and use it in a recipe so you can learn more about it. 

4. Write a letter of encouragement to a friend. - Pinterest Release 02/22 

If you’ve noticed that a neighbor, a friend, or family member has been feeling blue, consider delivering a handwritten note of friendship or encouragement. Maybe there’s a book you’ve loved that you want to pass along for them to enjoy next, or a piece of artwork that you think they might like. The goal is to let them know how much they mean to you, and to extend kindness through a caring note. 

5. Support a small business. - Pinterest Release 02/23 

Small businesses are often the heart of a community. One of the best ways to support small businesses is to go shopping! See what’s sprouting at the local farmers market or buy some flowers for your teacher at the local flower shop. Not able to go shopping? Find ways to help spread the word about the small businesses in your town.  Another great way to complete this adventure is to simply visit each one of your identified small businesses and say thank you. Small businesses create new jobs, provide personal experiences, and support your local economy. When they do well, your whole community does well. 

6. Make a homemade bird feeder. - Pinterest Release 02/24 

If you think it’s nice hearing the birds chirp outside your window each morning, this next adventure is for you. Making homemade bird feeders is a fun way to get to know which birds are native to your area and a great way to help little winged friends when their food sources are scarce in the wintertime. This adventure is good for the environment, too, as bird feeders can be made using all-natural items from your yard or recycle bin. Download a free printable on how to make a birdfeeder in the resources section of this site. 

7. Start a family giving jar. - Pinterest Release 02/25 

Consider how kindness could become a family tradition. First, find an empty jar—it can be a pickle jar, a peanut butter jar, a Mason jar, or any other jar you have lying around. That’s your Giving Jar. For the month or weeks leading up to your family’s holiday, make it a tradition to place a few pennies or a few dollars—anything considered spare change— in the jar at the end of each day. Then, the week before your big holiday, select someone who’s going through a tough time financially and work as a family to give the jar to them in person or anonymously. Or, donate the collected funds to a nonprofit of your family’s choosing. '

8. Scrap all single use plastic this week. - Pinterest Release 02/26

Play an active part in protecting our oceans and all the sea creatures that call them home. First, make a commitment to give up single-use plastic items such as plastic snack bags, plastic forks, plastic water bottles, and most importantly, plastic straws. America alone uses over 500 million plastic straws every day, and most of those end up in our oceans, polluting the water and killing marine life. If we don’t work together to end the use of plastic straws, by 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. 

9. Support a Little Free Library. - Pinterest Release 02/27

There’s nothing better than getting lost in a great book, except maybe sharing that book with a friend. Sharing the love of reading with someone else is one of our favorite adventures in kindness, and now there’s a movement underway to share that love even farther and wider with your community. For this adventure, we invite you to find the closest Little Free Library to your house and leave a book inside for someone else to find!  Use this tool to find a Little Free Library near you! 

10. Take our Home Sweet Home pledge to protect the earth. - Pinterest Release 02/28

The saying, “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children,” is a good reminder of our job to keep the planet better than we found it. Unfortunately, the earth is experiencing the effects of global warming faster than ever in history, which means it is all of our jobs to protect and care for Mother Earth. Join us at Adventures in Kindness to take the Home Sweet Home pledge and start doing at least one of these activities this week. Challenge yourself to keep up this adventure for the rest of this year!  Download the pledge in the resources section of our website. 

11. Read a book by a Black or Indigenous author. - Pinterest Release 03/01

We love reading because of how much it opens our minds to new ideas and different cultures. We also know how many books default to old stereotypes, such as the white knight or the princess who needs saving. If you’re ready for more diverse views of our world, head to your local library and seek out a book written by a Black or Indigenous author. If you’re looking for a head start, check out our reading list for racially conscious kids.  

12. Learn how to say hello in at least one new language- and practice it with your friends. - Pinterest Release 03/02

Hello. Hi. Hey. Hiya. The simple act of saying hello to someone in their native language is not only a kind gesture, but also a great sign of respect. And, since you’ve probably already mastered the many types of greetings in your native language, use this adventure to learn how to say “Hello” in several other languages. By expanding the languages you speak, rather than limiting yourself to one single language, you’ll be far more able to connect with those in your community who speak different languages. Learning a language is no fun if you can’t use it, so try out your new words on your friends and family. 

13. Take the day in a wheelchair challenge. - Pinterest Release 03/03

 Have you ever experienced walking on crutches or moving around in a wheelchair? If so, you’re probably aware of how difficult it can be for people who are physically challenged to get around town. It’s tough to access certain areas without ramps and difficult to find wheelchair accessible bathrooms. For this adventure, take one day to make note of all the places you go, and how your daily motions might change if you were in a wheelchair. Take notice of how often you rely on stairs, where the nearest elevators or ramps are located, and even the quality of city streets and sidewalks (cracks and bumps are hard to roll over). Individuals living with physical challenges often have their needs ignored because able-bodied people just don’t see or experience the world in the same way. Take the time to understand if accessibility is a challenge in your community, and then think about what you might be able to do to help. Don’t underestimate your ability to advocate for improved sidewalks, safer crosswalks, more ramps, or more accessible bathroom facilities. 

14. Spread joy with a kindness rock. - Pinterest Release 03/04

  Would you like to spread happiness around like sunshine? This is a simple adventure that can do just that! Start by heading outside and collecting some small, smooth rocks from around your yard or neighborhood. Wash and dry them well and then cover them with a full coat of paint. When the paint has dried, use a separate paint color or marker to add words of happiness and encouragement to each rock, such as “you are loved,” “kindness rocks,” “today’s the day,” “stay positive,” or “be brave.” Once the rocks are ready, deliver them to people in and around your community. You can either leave them in places where your friends and family will find them or give them directly as gifts. Either way, know that you’ll be spreading sunshine to anyone on the receiving end. 

15. Introduce yourself using your pronouns at least once this week. - Pinterest Release 03/05

A pronoun is a word we use when speaking about a person and is one way that we gender people. For example, “She went to the store,” or “I saw him today!” and “Have you heard from them yet?” She/her, he/him, and they/them are all pronouns. When speaking about non-living objects, we may use this, that, or it. It is never appropriate to refer to another person using this, that, or it. People often assume the gender of others by their appearance and use pronouns to match their assumption (which is not always correct). It’s important to ask for pronouns because you cannot assume someone’s gender based on clothing, makeup, body size or shape, body hair, etc. 

16. Reach out to a friend or teacher and tell them how much they mean to you. - Pinterest Release 03/06

There’s nothing more special than telling someone how much they mean to you. If there’s a teacher who has inspired you, a family member who has supported you, or a friend who is always there when you need them, make this the week that you tell them how much they matter to you! 

We hope you’ve loved these adventures, and we thank you for helping us build a community of kindness activists.  Be sure to engage with us on Pinterest and when you’ve completed 10 adventures - tell us! Drop us a line at hello@adventuresinkindness.com and let us know how you did with your adventure, and be sure to stay in touch by joining our mailing list.  If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more!

Until then, may all your adventures be kind ones! 

Welcome, Sadie Lockhart!

Meet the newest edition to our team, Sadie Lockhart! Sadie is a social activist, educator, and creative artist who joins us with an extensive background in community organizing and engagement. Recently, we sat down with Sadie to learn more about her passion for working with young people, her love of the arts, and what she’s most looking forward to as Community Engagement Coordinator at Adventures in Kindness. Read our conversation below. 

1. We’re thrilled to have you here, Sadie. Tell us about your experience as a community organizer prior to joining the Adventures in Kindness team. 

I am thrilled to be here! Golly. Where to begin.  I have a lot of experience in nonprofit theater, education, and community engagement. I have organized summer camps and classes, worked with teachers to create content and curriculum that is meaningful, directed student shows, trained teachers, wrote plays for young people, and developed creative ways to produce content. I’ve met incredible humans through my work and partnered with them to foster authentic communities. I want people to always feel like they belong and that their voice matters.  And my job, essentially, is to continue to do that through many different layers of community at Adventures in Kindness. 

2. Who, or what, inspires your creativity and passion for working with young people? 

My whole family. Absolutely. I always felt so supported and encouraged to dream big and use my creative voice as a young person. Among many things, from a young age, my mom infused compassion and the importance of being involved in the community and volunteering. My dad gave me many artistic tools and "out of the box” ways of thinking to let my creativity soar. My Omie gave me a love for storytelling and using my imagination. I carry these lessons with me in life, and I’ve discovered such a passion for supporting other young people in their journeys of finding their creative and influential voices. 

3. You have such a rich background in the arts, and specifically in the theater. What’s one life lesson you gained from the stage, and how might kind kids— and their communities— apply this advice in their own lives? 

“There are no small parts, only small actors.” In theater, we talk about how every role is important in a show— every lead actor, background actor, stagehand, technician...even the audience.  The success of the show is intertwined with the work and care that every person involved in the team is bringing.  I think about that a lot, in theater and in life: the idea that I can choose to show up in a big way and play a small role in making this world a better place. Kind kids live this motto daily. The impact of a small act of kindness can have so many rippling effects of positive change. Believe in the power you have to create a positive impact in the world, at all ages!  

4. What excites you the most about the Adventures in Kindness community? 

The most exciting thing to me about Adventures in Kindness is its mission. This community of young people activating to create a kinder world is powerful, and it’s something I definitely want to be a part of.  The thing I am looking forward to the most is getting to know all of you and getting to connect with your schools, organizations, and clubs.  I can’t wait learn more about our community.    

5. From Adventures in Kindness assemblies to Kids Club, there are so many exciting ways for parents, teachers, and youth leaders to make kindness a daily practice in their communities. How can someone reach out to you with questions about getting started? 

So true! Of course, make sure that you’ve signed up for our newsletter and Kids Club (Insider’s Secret: there is even more exciting programming and content coming your way this year). Please email me at sadie@mission.partners. I would love to connect about ideas, questions, and anything you might be envisioning for your community! I cannot wait to meet you! 

“The impact of a small act of kindness can have so many rippling effects of positive change. Believe in the power you have to create a positive impact in the world, at all ages!”

Lightning Round:  

Favorite kids/YA book:  Once Upon a Pony Time at Chincoteague by Barbara Lockhart and Lynne Lockhart (my Omie –grandmother- and aunt co-wrote it with my aunt’s illustrations.)  

Favorite AIK adventure: Adventure #5 in the second edition: Host A Community Dog Wash. It just sounds like the most fun! I love animals, and the thought of that many magical dogs together in one place on a warm summer day sounds splendid!  

Favorite show you’ve performed in: A Midsummer Night’s Dream where I played Hermia - “Though she be but little, she is fierce!”  

Favorite show you’ve managed/directed: I co-directed and managed a rendition of “The Little Mermaid” with Missoula Children’s Theatre.  It was so fun to do the show over again each week with a different group in a whole new town and state!  

Favorite cause(s): An organization that is near and dear to my heart is SHH Kids , a grassroots organization whose mission is to alleviate violence and extreme poverty in Honduras through education and youth empowerment.  I also love #ENOUGH, an organization that calls on teens to confront gun violence by creating new works of theater that will spark critical conversations and inspire meaningful action in communities across the country. 

Haven’t gotten the second edition yet? Check it out here, Adventures in Kindness book!

A Season of Kindness

JANUARY UPDATE: Due to the December/January surge in COVID-19 and resulting low participation in this in-store campaign, we have paused this effort and will revisit the campaign in the spring. We appreciate your understanding and welcome any questions or concerns at hello@adventuresinkindness.com. We remain deeply appreciative of Dawson’s Market, and are glad to report that Adventures in Kindness still gave a meaningful donation to Small Things Matter as our nonprofit partner in this campaign effort.

Hi friend! Thanks for your interest in our very special Season of Kindness campaign, which we are hosting this December in partnership with locally owned small business Dawson’s Market to support the Maryland-based and youth-led nonprofit, Small Things Matter.

Between December 10-30, 2021 if you’ll be in Rockville, MD or Washington, DC, we invite you to pick up a free Season of Kindness adventure card at your local Dawson’s Market. Complete at least 10 adventures on the card by the end of the campaign + return it to either Dawson’s store to be entered into win one of three $200 Dawson’s gift cards, or one of two Adventures in Kindness fun packs—each a $50 value! There’s no purchase necessary, and contest rules at the bottom of this post.  

If you’ve already got your card in hand and you’re looking for more details on the adventures, keep on reading!

Not in the DC/MD/VA area, but still want to participate?  Drop us a line at hello@adventuresinkindness.com and we’ll email you a printable copy of the adventure card.

Please note: the following adventures are all excerpts from our award-winning action/adventure book Adventures in Kindness, now available in a newly expanded second edition. Grab your signed copy now, and 20% of your order will support one of our featured nonprofit partners.

Now, let’s go on an adventure!

1. Visit with an older neighbor.  Have you ever felt lonely? For many aging adults—who may not have friends or family living nearby, or who may no longer drive—this is a very common feeling,

and it’s often referred to as social isolation. To combat isolation, and to practice care for our neighbors, we invite you to visit with an older neighbor, and take the opportunity to learn more about their life experiences.   Ask about their life as a child, as a young adult, and as an older adult. Record the interview using a journal or an audio recorder to make sure you capture

everything that your subject shares, and then write or type up your interview. Give them a copy when you’re done—they might like it written down! Not only is this a great way to learn about people who have lived experiences different from your own, but it’s a kind gesture for someone who might live alone and may not have as many chances to socialize with family and friends.

Check out the Adventures in Kindness book for an interview guide that further supports this adventure.

2. Head out on a nature walk- and leave the path cleaner than you found it. Going on a nature adventure is a fun and easy way to be kind to the planet. The best part is, you can start right where you are, since nature is all around us! Get yourself a magnifying glass, a notebook and pencil to get this adventure going. First, take a walk around the perimeter of your home or neighborhood. Notice the kinds of plants, flowers, rocks, and soil that exist there. Then, take a second lap, looking even closer under the leaves to examine the insects, soil, and animals that live in the area. Get down on your hands and knees and look closely. You’ll be amazed how much there is to find in every square of nature. Your job on this adventure is to leave any place you visit cleaner than the way you found it.

3. Try a new fruit or vegetable this week. You may have a favorite food, but the best choice is to eat a lot of different foods and to always try new things. If you eat different foods, you’re more likely to get the nutrients your body needs to grow strong and to stay healthy. On your next trip to Dawson’s Market, take a slow walk through the produce aisle examining all the different fruits and vegetables that you’ve never tasted before. Consider trying at least one new type of fruit or vegetable each week and try it in a recipe so you can learn more about it.

4. Write a letter of encouragement to a friend. If you’ve noticed that a neighbor, a friend, or family member has been feeling blue, consider delivering a handwritten note of friendship or encouragement. Maybe there’s a book you’ve loved that you want to pass along for them to enjoy next, or a piece of artwork that you think they might like. The goal is to let them know how much they mean to you, and to extend kindness through a caring note.

5. Support a small business. Small businesses are often the heart of a community. One of the best ways to support small businesses is to go shopping! See what’s sprouting at the local farmers market or buy some flowers for your teacher at the local flower shop. Not able to go shopping? Find ways to help spread the word about the small businesses in your town.  Another great way to complete this adventure is to simply visit each one of your identified small businesses and say thank you. Small businesses create new jobs, provide personal experiences, and support your local economy. When they do well, your whole community does well.

6. Make a homemade bird feeder. If you think it’s nice hearing the birds chirp outside your window each morning, this next adventure’s for you. Making homemade bird feeders is a fun way to get to know which birds are native to your area and a great way to help little winged friends when their food sources are scarce in the wintertime. This adventure’s good for the environment too, as bird feeders can be made using all-natural items from your yard or recycle bin. Download a free printable on how to make a birdfeeder in the  resources section of this site.

7. Start a family giving jar. In the lead up to one or more of your family’s celebrated holidays, consider how kindness could become a family tradition. First, find an empty jar—it can be a pickle jar, a peanut butter jar, a Mason jar, or any other jar you have lying around. That’s your Giving Jar. For the month or weeks leading up to your family’s holiday, make it a tradition to place a few pennies or a few dollars—anything considered spare change— in the jar at the end of each day. Then, the week before your big holiday, select someone who’s going through a tough time financially and work as a family to give the jar to them in person or anonymously—or donate the collected funds to a nonprofit of your family’s choosing.

8. Scrap all single use plastic this week. Play an active part in protecting our oceans and all the sea creatures that call them home. First, make a commitment to give up single-use plastic items such as plastic snack bags, plastic forks, plastic water bottles, and most importantly, plastic straws. America alone uses over 500 million plastic straws every day,2 and most of those end up in our oceans, polluting the water and killing marine life. If we don’t work together to end the use of plastic straws, by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than there are fish.

9. Support a Little Free Library. There’s nothing better than getting lost in a great book, except maybe sharing that book with a friend. Sharing the love of reading with someone else is one of our favorite adventures in kindness, and now there’s a movement underway to share that love even farther and wider with your community. For this adventure, we invite you to find the closest Little Free Library to your house, and leave a book inside for someone else to find!  Use this tool to find a Little Free Library near you!

10. Take our Home Sweet Home pledge to protect the earth. The saying, “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children,” is a good reminder of our job to keep the planet better than we found it. Unfortunately, the earth is experiencing the effects of global warming faster than ever in history, which means it is all of our jobs to protect and care for Mother Earth. Join us at Adventures in Kindness to take the Home Sweet Home pledge and start doing at least one of these activities this week. Challenge yourself to keep up this adventure for the rest of this year!  Download the pledge in the resources section of our website.

11. Read a book by a Black or Indigenous author. We love reading because of how much it opens our minds to new ideas and different cultures. But we also know how many books default to old stereotypes such as the white knight or the princess who needs saving. If you’re ready for more diverse views of our world, head to your local library and seek out a book written by a Black or Indigenous author. If you’re looking for a head start, check out our reading list for racially conscious kids.

12. Learn how to say hello in at least one new language- and practice it with your friends. Hello. Hi. Hey. Hiya. The simple act of saying hello to someone in their native language is not only a kind gesture, but also a great sign of respect. And, since you’ve probably already mastered the many types of greetings in your native language, use this adventure to learn how to say “Hello” in several other languages. By expanding the languages you speak, rather than limiting yourself to one single language, you’ll be far more able to connect with those in your community who speak different languages. Learning a language is no fun if you can’t use it, so try out your new words on your friends and family.

13. Take the day in a wheelchair challenge. Have you ever experienced walking on crutches or moving about in a wheelchair? If so, you’re probably aware of how difficult it can be for people who are physically challenged to get around town. It’s tough to access certain areas without ramps and difficult to find wheelchair accessible bathrooms. For this adventure, take one day making note of all the places you go and how your daily motions might change if you were in a wheelchair. Take notice of how often you rely on stairs, where the nearest elevators or ramps are located, and even the quality of city streets and sidewalks (cracks and bumps are hard to roll over). Individuals living with physical challenges often have their needs ignored because able-bodied people just don’t see or experience the world in the same way. Take the time to understand if accessibility is a challenge in your community, and then think about what you might be able to do to help. Don’t underestimate your ability to advocate for improved sidewalks, safer crosswalks, more ramps, or more accessible bathroom facilities.

14. Spread joy with a kindness rock. Would you like to spread happiness around like sunshine? This is a simple adventure that can do just that! Start by heading outside and collecting some small, smooth rocks from around your yard or neighborhood. Wash and dry them well and then cover them with a full coat of paint. When the paint has dried, use a separate paint color or marker to add words of happiness and encouragement to each rock, such as “you are loved,” “kindness rocks,” “today’s the day,” “stay positive,” or “be brave.” Once the rocks are ready, deliver them to people in and around your community. You can either leave them in places where your friends and family will find them or give them directly as gifts. Either way, know that you’ll be spreading sunshine to anyone on the receiving end.

15. Introduce yourself using your preferred pronouns at least once this week. A pronoun is a word we use when speaking about a person, and is one way that we gender people. For example, “She went to the store,” or “I saw him today!” and “Have you heard from them yet?” She/her, he/him, and they/them are all pronouns. When speaking about non-living objects, we may use this, that or, it. It is never appropriate to refer to another person using this, that, or it. People often assume the gender of others by their appearance and use pronouns to match their assumption (which is not always correct). It’s important to ask for pronouns because you cannot assume someone’s gender based on clothing, makeup, body size or shape, body hair, etc.

16. Reach out to a friend or teacher and tell them how much they mean to you. There’s nothing more special than telling someone how much they mean to you. If there’s a teacher whose inspired you, a family member who has supported you, or a friend who is always there when you need them, make this the week that you tell them how much they matter to you!

We hope you’ve loved these adventures and we thank you for helping us build a whole community of kindness activists.  Drop us a line at hello@adventuresinkindness.com and let us know how you did with your adventure, and be sure to stay in touch by joining our mailing list. If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more!

Until then- may all your adventures be kind ones!

Contest Rules: Open to U.S. residents only. Must be 18 years or older to win. Parents or legal guardians may submit adventure cards on behalf of their children under the age of 18, thereby giving permission to participate in the contest. Only one entry per person. Kindness activities must be completed between December 10, 2021 and December 30, 2021. Five winners will be selected by a random name generator and contacted by Adventures in Kindness on Monday, January 10, via email message. No purchase necessary. Entrants confirm they are 18 years of age or have the permission of a parent or guardian to participate. Entrants release Adventures in Kindness and Dawson’s Market of responsibility, and agree to Adventures in Kindness terms of use. The names of the winners will be posted on this blog by January 12, 2022.   This contest is void where prohibited by law.  We have the right to refuse, withdraw, or disqualify entries in our sole discretion.  Entry submission grants Adventures in Kindness and Dawson’s Market permission to use your entry, name, image and likeness for publicity, advertising, promotion, and trade without further compensation or remuneration unless prohibited by law.  Odds of winning are dependent on the number of entries received.  Winners have 72 hours to claim their prize, and the prize may be forfeited if a winner does not respond to Adventures in Kindness within that time frame. Adventures in Kindness is not liable for someone’s failure to receive notification of winning if an incorrect email address or incorrect telephone number was provided or if an entrant’s email security settings caused a winning notification to go into a spam or junk email folder.

A Summer Without Single-Use Plastic

by Kaitlin Quigley

Did you know that America alone uses over 500 million plastic straws every day? 

Most of those straws, like other kinds of plastic, end up in our oceans and pollute the water. According to National Geographic, 8 million tons of plastic waste from coastal nations ends up in our oceans every year. That’s the same amount of waste as placing five filled garbage bags on every foot of coastline around the world.  

Once plastic ends up in the ocean, it’s nearly impossible to get it out. While some mechanical systems can recover big pieces of plastic, like single-use cups or bags, plastic that’s been broken down already cannot be easily retrieved. 

Not only does plastic pollute the water, but it hurts marine life, too. Science predicts that if we don’t work together to reduce plastic use, there will be more plastic in the ocean than there are fish by 2050. 

But here’s the good news: if we act now, we can save our oceans and planet from a complete plastic takeover. Not sure where to start? Here are a few simple swaps you can make to curb your plastic footprint this summer. 

1. Save ocean life by swapping plastic straws for reusable ones. Plastic straws can do a lot of damage to a sea creature’s digestive system, sometimes even leading to starvation. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives. Some prefer to skip the straw entirely. Although, this is not a possibility for everyone, as many people need a straw to be able to drink. You can find a list of 14 reusable straws— from silicone to stainless steel— that are affordable, adaptable, and easy to use here. Pro Tip: If you’re a coffee drinker, you’ve probably noticed some changes to the plastic lids at places like Starbucks, and even in local shops. While it’s a step in the right direction to swap straw holes for sip lids, the cup itself still generates single-use plastic waste. And, sip lids are not always inclusive to those who need a straw to drink. As COVID-19 restrictions lift, check and see if your favorite coffee shop will prepare your drink in a reusable cup. That way, you can find a cup that best suits your needs, and do your part for the environment, too. 

2. Stay hydrated, sustainably. At Adventures in Kindness, we’re always on a mission to drink more water, especially during the hot summer months. But plastic water bottles are expensive, wasteful, and warm up quickly, especially in a hot car or on a walk. That’s why we love our friends at Fill it Forward, a Certified B Corporation finding the best solutions to eliminating single-use waste. Fill it Forward combines sustainable products with great technologies and global giving initiatives, too. They make staying hydrated easy, fun, and impactful. By making it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle wherever the day may lead, we can reach two goals this summer: 1) staying hydrated, and 2) saving the planet.

3. Skip the plastic snack bags. By the 1970s, Ziploc bags were officially a go-to staple in homes across the country. But despite their convenient design, Ziploc and competing single-use bags contribute to our current environmental crisis. Last spring, I swapped my Ziplocs for Stasher Bags, a Certified B Corporation providing silicone storage bags in the fight against single-use waste. They come in fun colors and are so easy to wash and reuse. You can toss them in the freezer, the microwave, and even the oven! Snacking doesn’t have to be wasteful— by finding alternatives to single-use products, we can turn our intention to create a better world into actual impact. 

Cutting back on single-use plastic is an adventure we can all take this summer, no matter where you live. And if you’re visiting a beach, pond, or lake in the next few months, it’s always a good idea to pick up any trash you see that could harm local sea creatures. Make it a point to simply leave every beach area you visit cleaner than the way you found it.  

For more acts of kindness to show animals, the planet, and others, check out the Adventures in Kindness book here.  Use code KINDSUMMER22 for free shipping and receive a free gift with your purchase!

Setting out on a Summer of Kindness

Earlier this week, Sophia and I had a chance to deliver one of our Adventures in Kindness virtual assemblies to a wonderful group of elementary school students and their teachers. We were part of an end-of-year kindness boost, designed to set the kids off on a summer-long adventure to spread kindness in their communities.  I just loved that idea, and it sparked something that’s sticking with me: As we’re winding down from this 2020-2021 school year that, for many of us was in part (or in full) a virtual experience, setting out on a low-tech summer and reconnecting with each other and our community may just be what we all need.

As we look ahead to what this summer will hold for our kids, it’s a good time to remember that Kindness Is An Adventure We Can Always Go On.  And with COVID restrictions lifting, there are a few adventures in the book that might be just right for you:

• Let’s Get Reading.  In some communities around the country, including ours here in Maryland, libraries are getting ready to reopen. (Hooray!) What better way to start off the summer than by building a summer reading list! Make space for some new books by pulling together a donation of well-loved books from your own shelves and seeking out a local Little Free Library or community center. You and your kids could also offer to spend some time reading to younger siblings, neighbors, or friends in the neighborhood.  You may also want to check out our summer reading lists and discussion guides designed to encourage family conversations on race, equity and inclusion.

• Visit at Least Five Museums, Historic Sites, or Monuments in your Area this summer. An important part of being kind is taking time to learn about the people, cultures, and history of the world all around you. Museums, national parks, historic sites, and monuments are all a great source of that learning. Plus, they’re the perfect places for special memory-making days with your family. First, explore the list of museums, national parks, historic sites and monuments near you, and work with your kids to choose at least five that you’ve never visited before. Tip! Check out the National Park Service (nps.gov) for a complete list of parks, historic sites, and monuments in your state, including lots of good ideas to help plan your trip. At each stop along your adventure, take note of the art and artifacts you see, and read about the history of new places you visit. Ask your kids to share what surprised them most about each exhibit or space you explore. Use every new museum or park experience to ask questions and learn alongside your kids. We bet that even before your five-stop adventure is up, you’ll be ready to start planning your next round!

• Take On a Family Fitness Adventure. Living healthy isn’t just kind for your body, it can be a great activity for your whole family, too. This adventure involves lacing up your sneakers and going for a family hike. Before you stop reading, do not let the word “hike” scare you. This adventure doesn’t require big climbs, long distances, or super speed. It just requires getting out and moving. Start with a daily walk around your neighborhood or a weekend trek through whatever natural surroundings can be found in your community. Aim for one mile at first and track how you feel at the end of each hiking adventure. Can you keep it up for five days in a row? How about five weeks? Challenge yourself to see how long you can keep this adventure going!

If these adventures sparked ideas for you, then check out the complete round up of 52 Adventures in the book, which is available for limited time at a special summer discount of $12.00 using SUMMEROFKINDNESS.

Now, let’s get out there and do some good. A Summer of Kindness awaits!

If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more! Use code KINDSUMMER22 for free shipping and receive a free gift with your purchase!

Hear Their Stories: A Memorial Day Inspired Kindness Adventure

"Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. it flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it."

– Unknown

Memorial Day has become associated with the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time for barbeques, first dips in the pool, and long weekends with friends—all things that can be done safely and socially distanced for families with young children. And while the reprieve of a long weekend (for those who do not work on the federal holiday) to is going to be very welcome, we hope you’ll join us in taking a few minutes to remember the meaning of Memorial Day, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military, while celebrating those servicemembers who continue to sacrifice for our safety and wellbeing.

So often, we hear stories about service that make us imagine what life must be like in the military. On the news, in movies, and in books, each story is different from the one before it. No two people in the armed forces will have the same exact experience. When given the opportunity, it’s a privilege to hear someone’s service story from them, directly.

So, this weekend, whether you’re passing by a uniformed service member at the airport, in the crosswalk, or at a store, it’s always kind to thank them for their service. But how might we extend this kind gesture even further? 

This Memorial Day, consider working with your kind kid to connect with a veteran or service member to better understand what their experience in the armed forces was, or is, like. If you’re unsure where to start, ask your school or a neighbor if they have a friend or family member who would be willing to chat.

Here are a few questions to get you started, inspired by Adventure #50 in the Adventures in Kindness book:

1. Can you tell me where and when you served? 

2. How did your experience shape who you are today? 

3. What’s a lasting memory from being deployed? 

4. What was the best part of being in the service? 

5. What was the most difficult part of being in the service? 

Remember, not all folks will want to share, so start politely with an invitation to talk, and if they’re willing to share a bit of their experience with them, be sure to thank them for their time, and listen carefully to what they have to say. Keep a log of your interviewee’s answers and take note of what surprises, amazes, or interests you the most. This will be helpful when sharing what you’ve learned with friends, family members, or your classmates. All service members carry powerful stories— it’s important that we all do the work to pass them on.  

Saying thank you is an act of kindness, too! Send a handwritten note expressing your gratitude when the interview is over. As always, both little and big acts can go a long way.  

For more acts of kindness to show the troops and others, check out the book here.  Use code KINDSUMMER22 for free shipping and receive a free gift with your purchase!

Five Immersive Experiences for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, a commemoration of the culture, traditions and history of Asian American and Pacific Islander people in the U.S. It’s also an opportune time to pause with your children to better understand the bias, discrimination and increased violence directed at Asian and Asian American people, and to take action in support of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities.  

As with other similarly themed months, it is important that we do not isolate exploration of AAPI history and culture into one month during the year, but that we use this moment as a starting point for much deeper understanding, empathy building, and learning adventures. 

According to a just released Pew Research Report, the Asian American community in the U.S. is diverse. A record 23 million Asian American people trace their roots to more than twenty countries in East and Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, each with unique histories, cultures, languages and other characteristics. Currently, Asian American people comprise about 7% of the U.S. population. 85% of those Asian American people have origins in six countries: China, India, Philippines, Vietnam, Korea and Japan.  

A little history on APAH Month: 

Since 1979, May has been a dedicated time to celebrate Asian Pacific American heritage, but it wasn't until 1992 that May was officially designated Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Why the month of May? It commemorates the immigration of the first Japanese to the U.S. in May 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in May 1869 that was made possible by thousands of Chinese laborers. APAH Month elevates the stories, contributions, and experiences of the Asian and Asian American communities.  

Take Action! 

This Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, join us in celebrating the vibrant and diverse traditions and contributions of Asians and Asian Americans, in expanding knowledge, and in interrupting harmful narratives that have been spurred on by the coronavirus outbreak. Tune in for an educational program, try a new food, expand your bookshelf, and dig into history to celebrate Asian Pacific American heritage throughout the month of May and beyond. 

1. DISCUSS: While initially designed for educators, this robust resource from Learning for Justice (formerly Teaching Tolerance) provides all the tools you need to dig into an important conversation with your kids about the intersections of racism and the coronavirus. Since the virus began to spread, people who identify as Asian American or Pacific Islander (AAPI) have been subjected to racist comments and jokes online and in person, and to isolating behavior from those who are afraid of catching the virus. Talk with your kids about ways to interrupt this harmful discourse, and any anti-AAPI and xenophobic narratives.  

2. EXPLORE:  We love this amazing series developed by the Asia Society of Texas that offers At-Home Adventures through Asia — lesson plans highlighting a different country through five simple, at-home activities. Check out this amazing set of adventures through Asia, developed perfect for all learners who want to explore countries in Asia with five, simple at home activities. 

3. LISTEN. Expand your music selection with this great collection of Asian and Asian American artists! Production Technician Liz Nguyen has curated this three-hour Spotify playlist for a fun weekend listen, or for popping on during your next family car ride. 

4. WATCH. Take in the new documentary Unintended Memoir, about Amy Tan, the genius and trailblazing author behind “The Joy Luck Club” which remains one of the New York Times’ longest No. 1 best-sellers. This film tells her life story through home-movie footage, photographs, simple animation, gently confessional segments with the author and excerpts from a recent public speaking engagement. 

5. LEARN. Check out this lesson plan from ADL (designed for young adults): Voices of Japanese Internees. Using video histories of Japanese-American internees during World War II, this curriculum unit provides an opportunity for older students to use this dark period in U.S. history to reflect on the dangers of stereotyping, prejudice and racial and ethnic discrimination, so as not to repeat history.  

Looking for even more great ways to celebrate and learn? Download this terrific calendar with 31 ways to celebrate APHA month, developed by the Asia Society of Texas.  Thanks to all who contributed great ideas to this roundup!  If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more! Use code KINDSUMMER22 for free shipping and receive a free gift with your purchase!

Food For Thought: Five Ways To Reduce Food Waste This Season

Due to the realities of the past year, it’s likely that each of us carries our own story about an essential item gone missing from the shelves at our local market. Maybe it was toilet paper. Or disinfecting products. Perhaps it was boxed pasta, or even Grape-Nuts. No matter the shortage, many of us were forced to get creative with odds-and-ends dinners and DIY cleaning products. 

At the same time, a confusing conflict formed: while many markets placed limits on the number of milk jugs and egg cartons one shopper could purchase at a time, farmers nationwide were being forced to, literally, dump their fresh food down the drain. In fact, Dairy Farmers of America estimates that farmers were dumping as many as 3.7 million gallons of milk a day during earlier months of the pandemic. That’s a lot of spilled milk. 

Closed restaurants, schools, and hotels added to the food waste crisis on many farms, whose regular buyers were no longer in need of their crops. And even with an increase of people in the United States regularly eating at home, the tons of perishables meant for school lunchrooms and restaurant kitchens went untouched.  

Did you know that the U.S. discards nearly 80 billion pounds of food every year, a leading cause of which is food spoilage...which includes food that isn’t even spoiled... You heard that right: more than 80% of people in the U.S. discard perfectly fine food because they do not understand the expiration label. While wasting food “here and there” may not seem like a big deal, this unhealthy habit can really add up: the nation’s annual amount of waste breaks down to about 219 pounds per person. What’s more, millions of people in the United States do not have the privilege of careless buying and tossing. Pre-pandemic, 35 million people in the United States faced food insecurity. That number is expected to rise to as many as 50 million in 2021.  

But it doesn’t have to be this way.  

Every day, we can each take small steps to reduce the amount of food ending up in the garbage each year. Here’s a few tips on getting started: 

1. Avoid Overbuying and Panic Buying. During the pandemic, the term “panic buying” has risen in popularity. In fear of an essential item running low again, panic buyers stock excessively, leaving little supplies for other individuals and households. Not only does this disproportionately impact those who cannot afford to buy so heavily in advance, it also heightens the risk of spoilage. Instead, plan meals ahead of time and enter the market knowing exactly what you’ll need. Planning saves money, time, and might even raise the opportunity to prepare for putting new and exciting recipes into action.  

2. Understand Expiration Dates. There’s a high percentage of people in the United States throwing away fresh food because of an expiration label misunderstanding. “Sell by,” “Use by,” “Expires on,” and “Best Before,” are understandably confusing, but learning about these labels can help us differentiate between what’s spoiled, and what’s fresh. Here's a guide on expiration labels to help you out. 

3. Store Food Correctly. Freshest items, to the back! When we don’t keep a cycle in our fridges and pantries, we run the risk of forgetting about food and leftovers that have fallen victim to the far back corners of our shelves. By organizing fruits, vegetables, and other perishables from oldest to freshest, we remind ourselves of the foods at our fingertips, with the peace of mind that by the time we reach that last apple or avocado, it’ll be ready for us to enjoy. Plus, maintaining a proper storage cycle lessens the number of times we have to do the dreaded fridge-and-pantry-cleanout that must happen when organization attempts fall short.  

4. Make the Most of Leftovers. Instead of tossing leftover dinners at the end of the night, consider reworking some of their elements into the next day’s lunches. Leftover grilled chicken goes great tossed in a salad the following day, or in a wrap. Likewise, the main courses of Tuesday’s dinner almost always have some potential to reappear as a side dish of Wednesday’s.   

5. Freeze! Contrary to my beliefs prior to adulthood, the freezer can be used for more than Ben & Jerrys. Meat, bread, butter, and much more enjoys a longer life span when it’s kept in the freezer until it’s time to thaw and prepare. If you purchase chicken but aren’t sure of when you’ll use it, for example, consider freezing it until your plan is more certain. The same can be done with bread, and even coffee grinds. 

The reality is that little changes can go a long way, and that by taking steps to reduce food waste, we’re also taking steps to care for our planet, and to reduce food insecurity. It’s a win, win, win.  And that’s the best kind of adventure in kindness. 

If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more!

February’s Free Activities and Downloads

For some, February might feel like that cold, slow month between the winter holidays and the start of spring (even if it is only 28 days!) but for us, we love how much there is to celebrate in February. Starting first with Black History Month, and coupled with Random Acts of Kindness Day, February gives us so many opportunities to learn, to honor Black excellence and to practice kindness.

In the spirit of sharing and growing together, we’ve re-elevated our summer reading lists (and supporting discussion guides) that feature great books for kids ages 6-12, all written by or featuring Black authors and main characters. And, we’ve developed some brand new free printables to help make practicing kindness even easier, and more fun!

FOR THE FREE PRINTABLES, SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST!

If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more!

READING LIST FOR AGES 6-8

The Day You Begin, By Jacqueline Woodson and illustrated by Rafael López

Available on Amazon.com

National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and two-time Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner Rafael López have teamed up to create a poignant, yet heartening book about finding courage to connect, even when you feel scared and alone.
There will be times when you walk into a room
and no one there is quite like you.
There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it's how you look or talk, or where you're from; maybe it's what you eat, or something just as random. It's not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it. Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical text and Rafael López's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.

Enough! 20 Protesters Who Changed America, By Emily Easton and illustrated by Ziyue Chen 

Available on Amazon.com

Change takes courage. Introduce your young activist to America's most influential protesters in this lushly illustrated picture book. Stand beside contemporary groundbreakers like Colin Kaepernick and transgender teen Jazz Jennings, and march in the footsteps of historical revolutionaries such as Harriet Tubman and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This moving text opens with a foreword from a Parkland shooting survivor and is perfect for those not quite ready for Little Leaders and She Persisted. This book provides a great introduction into the long history of how people have used their voice to work for change.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, A Young Civil Rights Activist By Cynthia Levinson and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Available at Barnes and Noble Booksellers

Meet the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963. This moving picture book proves you’re never too little to make a difference. When nine-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks heard grown-ups talk about wiping out Birmingham’s segregation laws, she volunteered to get arrested, even though it meant she would have to go to jail. This is the remarkable and inspiring story of one child’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez & Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation, By Duncan Tonatiuh

Available at Barnes and Noble Booksellers

Almost 10 years before Brown v. Board of Education, Sylvia Mendez and her parents helped end school segregation in California. Mendez, an American citizen of Mexican and Puerto Rican heritage, was denied enrollment to a “Whites only” school. Her parents took action by organizing the Latinx community and filing a lawsuit in federal district court. Their success eventually brought an end to the era of segregated education in California.  

Let It Shine: Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters By Andrea Davis Pinkney and illustrated by Stephen Alcorn

Available in Paperback at Barnes and Noble Booksellers

Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus and sparked a boycott that changed America. Harriet Tubman helped hundreds of slaves escape the South on the Underground Railroad. The lives of ten Black women activists are featured in an incredible story about courage in the face of oppression; about the challenges and triumphs of the battle for civil rights; and about speaking out for what you believe in-even when it feels like no one is listening.

Discussion Guide Ages 6-8

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SUMMER READING LIST FOR AGES 9-12

Look Both Ways By Jason Reynolds

Available at Barnes and Noble Booksellers

Look Both Ways: A Tale Told in Ten Blocks, by Jason Reynolds (Long Way Down, As Brave as You), is a set of 10 interconnected short stories set in the context of kids walking home from school. It doesn't follow a conventional structure with a beginning, middle, and end. Each story can stand alone; together they add up to a bigger picture. This book, which was named a 2020 Coretta Scott King (Author) Honor Book. could be a good match for readers who get impatient with long chapter books, and also for advanced readers who can appreciate the literary qualities. There are many potentially distressing descriptions of bullying. A group of kids whose families have lost financial footing due to a parent's cancer form an entrepreneurial "gang" to steal change. One girl is grieving the death of her older sister.

New Kid By Jerry Kraft

Available at Barnes at Noble Booksellers

Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Gene Luen Yang, New Kid is a timely, honest graphic novel about starting over at a new school where diversity is low and the struggle to fit in is real, from award-winning author-illustrator Jerry Craft. This middle grade graphic novel is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades 5 to 6, especially during homeschooling. It’s a fun way to keep your child entertained and engaged while not in the classroom.

Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade. As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. Can Jordan learn to navigate his new school culture while keeping his neighborhood friends and staying true to himself?

This Book is Anti-Racist By Tiffany Jewell and illustrated by Aurelia Durand

Available at Barnes and Noble Booksellers

Gain a deeper understanding of your anti-racist self as you progress through 20 chapters that spark introspection, reveal the origins of racism that we are still experiencing, and give you the courage and power to undo it. Each chapter builds on the previous one as you learn more about yourself and racial oppression. 20 activities get you thinking and help you grow with the knowledge. All you need is a pen and paper.

Author Tiffany Jewell, an anti-bias, anti-racist educator and activist, builds solidarity beginning with the language she chooses—using gender neutral words to honor everyone who reads the book. Illustrator Aurélia Durand brings the stories and characters to life with kaleidoscopic vibrancy.

This book is written for EVERYONE who lives in this racialized society—including the young person who doesn’t know how to speak up to the racist adults in their life, the kid who has lost themself at times trying to fit into the dominant culture, the children who have been harmed (physically and emotionally) because no one stood up for them or they couldn’t stand up for themselves, and also for their families, teachers, and administrators.

It All Comes Down to This By Karen English

Available at Barnes and Noble Booksellers

A powerful middle grade coming-of-age novel set in a slowly integrating upper middle class Los Angeles neighborhood in the summer of 1965, from a Coretta Scott King Honor Award–winning author.

It’s 1965, Los Angeles. All twelve-year-old Sophie wants to do is write her book, star in the community play, and hang out with her friend Jennifer. But she’s the new black kid in a nearly all-white neighborhood; her beloved sister, Lily, is going away to college soon; and her parents’ marriage is rocky. There’s also her family’s new, disapproving housekeeper to deal with. When riots erupt in nearby Watts and a friend is unfairly arrested, Sophie learns that life—and her own place in it—is even more complicated than she’d once thought. Leavened with gentle humor, this story is perfect for fans of Rita Williams-Garcia.

Discussion Guide Ages 9-12

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Free Printables!

Random Acts of Kindness Day is February 17th, but every day is a chance to perform kind acts. We’ve developed two fun printables to help practice kindness every day. Click each image below to download the printable!

Random Acts of Kindness Bingo!

Complete your kindness bingo board and share it back with us to win a prize!

Daily Acts of Kindness Habit Tracker

Make kindness a daily practice with this fun habit tracker!

Raising Kind Kids: 8 Great Activities

Above my younger daughter’s bed sits a framed quote that reads Be Brave. Brian and I are working hard to raise our girls with the confidence to use their voices; to stand up for what they believe in, and to question when something doesn’t make sense. That last one is the hardest, especially given the complexities of parenting in a COVID world.  I’m starting to think that the quote above my daughter’s bed is just as much for us parents as it is for our kids.

Working with my co-author and daughter on our book, Adventures in Kindness.

I reflected on that quote a lot when my older daughter Sophia (now 10) and I were writing our book, Adventures in Kindness, last year.  She was hearing news coverage and picking up on conversations in school that were confusing to her—conversations that led her to question how certain people in power can be so mean, but still get to be in charge.  We decided to challenge those questions into action—52 actions to be exact—that fill the pages of the book we authored together, and published at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The process of challenging those big and complicated questions—which I definitely did not have good answers to—was both a learning opportunity for her as much as it was for me. And in the process, I know we both became a little braver too.

In celebration of World Kindness Day, I’ve offered some of our favorite adventures from the book below and would love if you go check out the book yourself. As we’re coming into the holiday season, I think you’ll find this book is just as much for kids as it is their caring adults, and it may give you the same foundation to foster bravery and kindness in your kids as I am working to do with mine.

Adventures 10: Send Someone a Happiness Kit

If you’ve noticed that a new kid in school is having trouble making friends or if a neighbor or family member has been feeling blue, send them a happiness kit. Start with an old shoebox, mug, or a spare basket. (Maybe you can rescue a cardboard box before it makes it to your recycling bin!) Next, fill it with a few things that you think might bring this person joy. Consider including a joke book, a mug with a smiley face on it, some fresh fruit, a kindness rock (see Adventure #46) or other items you think they’ll enjoy. Finish it off with a handwritten note of kindness to the person who is feeling blue. When it’s all ready, leave it in a place where you know your friend will find it.

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       Craft supplies to decorate the box

·       Gently-used books to pass along

·       A shoe box or other small box

·       Approximate time: one day to one week

·       Cost: $ – $$

Sophia holding one of the Adventures in Kindness happiness boxes we made for our cousins.

Adventure 11: Start a Family Giving Jar

One thing we love about kindness is that it can often be done as a family. In the lead up to one or more of your family’s most celebrated holidays, consider how kindness could become a family tradition. First, find an empty jar—it can be a pickle jar, a peanut butter jar, a Mason jar, or any other jar you have lying around. That’s your Giving Jar.

For the entire month leading up to your family’s holiday, make it a tradition to place a few pennies or a few dollars—anything considered spare change—in the jar at the end of each day. Then, the week before your big holiday, select someone who’s going through a tough time financially and work as a family to give the jar to them in person or anonymously—or donate the collected funds to a nonprofit of your family’s choosing.

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       An empty, clean jar

·       Spare change

·       Approximate time: 30 days to one year

·       Cost: $ – $$$

Sophia with her Giving Jar!

A Note from Sophia

This is one of my favorite adventures in kindness because you work together as a family and you get to decide together where your giving jar money is needed most. My sister and I started by decorating the jar and then we made it the centerpiece of our kitchen table, so it was easy to think about it (and add to it) almost every day.

Adventure 15: Explore a World Calendar of Holidays with Your Friends or Family

You probably know most of the holidays that your family celebrates, but have you ever thought about the hundreds of other religious and cultural holidays that people celebrate around the world? Wouldn’t it be fun to learn more about them? For this adventure, work with an adult to print out a world calendar of holidays. Then, explore the list and pick one holiday per month that you’d like to know more about. As each holiday approaches, sit down with your family to learn more about the history and traditions of that holiday. Head to the library and find a book that will teach you more about the holiday or try finding someone in your school or neighborhood who celebrates the holiday and ask them more about it. A simple calendar of holidays can lead to great conversations about different types of cultures and their celebrations.

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       Family or friend to join you in the conversation

·       Access to the internet or a library

·       Approximate time: 20 to 30 minutes per conversation

·       Cost: none

We sit down as a family and map out which new holidays we want to learn about each year.

Adventure 18: Take On a Family Fitness Adventure

Living healthy isn’t just kind for your body, it can be a great activity for your family, too. This adventure involves lacing up your sneakers and going for a family hike. Before you stop reading, do not let the word “hike” scare you. This adventure doesn’t require big climbs, long distances, or super speed. It just requires getting out and moving. Start with a daily walk around your neighborhood or a weekend trek through whatever natural surroundings can be found in your community. Aim for one mile at first and track how you feel at the end of each hiking adventure. Can you keep it up for five days in a row? How about five weeks? Challenge yourself to see how long you can keep this adventure going!

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       Family or friend to join you in the fitness adventure

·       Sneakers

·       Reusable water bottle

·       Approximate time: 20 minutes per day

·       Cost: none

Family hikes are among our favorite fitness adventures.

Adventure 26: Support Local Farmers

We love walking to the small farm stand near our home, which is usually set up between June and September. It’s fun to talk with the farmers about what they’re growing, to learn more about how that season’s weather is affecting their crops, and to know that we’re supporting that local farm. If you live in a place that offers farmers markets or farm stands, start this adventure off with a visit and replace one fruit or vegetable that you would have purchased from the grocery store with something that was grown by a local farmer. If you don’t have any farm stands or farms near you, explore the options to have local produce delivered to your home. Most communities provide co-op services to support local farmers and there are also plenty of subscription services that help distribute less-than-perfect (but still delicious) produce, such as those funny-shaped but still delicious apples or cucumbers that grocery stores won’t often sell, right to your door for a discounted cost. Some of our favorite services include:

·       ImperfectFoods.com

·       HungryHarvest.net

·       MisfitsMarket.com

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       Adult supervision

·       Access to transportation (if farm or farmers market is not within walking distance)

·       Approximate time: one to two hours

·       Cost: $ – $$

Weekend explorations at farmers markets are such a good way to support local farmers and small businesses.

Adventure 30: Start a Little Free Library in Your Neighborhood

There’s nothing better than getting lost in a great book, except maybe sharing that book with a friend. Sharing the love of reading with someone else is one of our favorite adventures in kindness, and now there’s a movement underway to share that love even farther and wider with your community. For this adventure, we invite you to join the world’s largest book sharing movement by building a Little Free Library in front of your home or in your community so that everyone can share in a love of books. There are now more than 100,000 Little Free Libraries across the world, and if your community doesn’t yet have one, this would be a great adventure for you, your family or school to take on together.

Tip! Learn more, including how to build and stock your Little Free Library at LittleFreeLibrary.org .

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       Access to books at home or at the library

·       Approximate time: one week or less

·       Cost: none – $

Reading is one of the kindest activities we can do for our minds.

Adventure 38: Interview an Older Neighbor About Their Life Experiences

Have you ever felt lonely? For many aging adults—who may not have friends or family living nearby, or who may no longer drive—this is a very common feeling, and it’s often referred to as social isolation. Some reports note that close to 50 percent of older adults experience social isolation, which can lead to a greater number of falls and broken bones, hospitalizations and many other health issues. But, by every account, a sense of community can reduce the feeling of social isolation.

To help, we invite you to talk with an older person and interview them. Choose a person at least 65 years old. Ask questions about your subject’s experiences as a child, as a young adult, and as an older adult. Record the interview using a journal or an audio recorder to make sure you capture everything that your subject shares, and then write or type up your interview. Give them a copy when you’re done—they probably would like it written down! Not only is this a great way to learn about people who have lived experiences different from your own, but it’s a kind gesture for someone who might live alone and may not have as many chances to socialize with family and friends. Here are some questions that might help to guide your interview:

·       Where did you live as a child?

·       Tell me about your family and your home.

·       What was your neighborhood like?

·       Did you have pets as a child? If so, what kind and what were their names?

·       Did you have a nickname as a child? How did you get it?

·       What was your favorite subject in school? Was homework hard or easy for you?

·       Can you remember a historic event that happened when you were young? How did that event affect you?

·       What was your first job?

·       What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in our country in your lifetime?

·       What age or age range has been your favorite thus far?

After the interview concludes, write a note to your subject, thanking them for their time. Then, reflect on the following questions:

·       What was the interview like?

·       What are the most important things you learned about your older friend or family member?

·       What similar experiences have you had?

I love the bond my daughter has with her Nana.

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       The participation of an older neighbor or family member

·       A notebook and pen or an audio recorder

·       A notecard and stamp for your thank you note

·       Approximate time: one week or less

Adventure 40: Pay It Forward

In the movie Pay It Forward, a 7th grader named Trevor is given the following assignment by his social studies teacher: “Think of an idea to change our world— and put it into action!” Trevor comes up with the idea of paying it forward: you do a big favor for three different people and tell each of them not to pay you back, but to pay it forward to three other people who, in turn, each pay it forward to three more. Go ahead and pay it forward to three people who need help and tell them not to pay you back, but to make a commitment to help three other people when they can. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

·       Pull up the garbage cans or recycling bins for a neighbor on trash day.

·       Hold the elevator for a family with small children.

·       Share your umbrella when it next rains with someone who’s walking without one.

·       If you see someone taking pictures of their family, offer to take the picture so that this person can be alongside their family in the photo.

·       Help an older neighbor by mowing their lawn, watering their flower bed, or getting their groceries out of the car and into their home.

We love paying it forward with kindness rocks.

What You May Need to Complete this Adventure:

·       Just you and your kind self

·       Approximate time: a few minutes each day

·       Cost: none

If you like the Adventures we shared here, I hope you’ll check out the book to access all 52 Adventures.  As Sophia says…one kind act makes a little bit of difference, but when we all act with kindness, we can make a world of good.

 Happy World Kindness Day!

Carrie

If you’d like more adventures like these, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book for more!

The Adventures in Kindness Giving Program

Even before the manuscript for Adventures in Kindness was complete, we knew that we would donate a portion of the book’s proceeds to the amazing nonprofit organizations who inspired so many of the kind acts in the book. That idea turned into the Adventures in Kindness grants program, in which we choose 4-6 nonprofits each year (primarily those nonprofits featured in the book), and we donate 20% of all sales to those featured organizations.

Thanks to all of YOU who have supported our efforts, we’ve been able to support in emergency COVID response efforts, we’ve helped launch new community programs, and we’ve contributed to medical research supporting children living with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Since starting the giving program in June 2020, we have supported the following nonprofits:

• Southern Poverty Law Center

• Feeding America

• Manna Food Center

• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

• Operation Paperback

• Comfort Cases

• Operation Gratitude

• AAPI Women Lead

• Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless

• Girls on the Run

If you have an idea for a nonprofit that we should support in a future grant cycle, please drop us a line at hello@adventuresinkindness.com.

With love,

Haven’t seen the book yet?, check out the full Adventures in Kindness book and select which charity that you would like to reach out to.