A Canadian study demonstrates that 9-11 year olds who plan and carry out random acts of kindness become better liked by peers. Yes, really! Similar experiments in adults have shown that being actively kind increases happiness, and happier people then become more likely to help others.
Read about it here and then put your little guys to work. The results could affect a lifetime.
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Ah! Thank you so much for this link– I agree that when we encourage our kids to do outwardly for others (without expectation of a reward–just the pleasure and empowerment of seeing our own *selves* in a positive way), it sure does make them feel good about themselves. That has an overall affect on their self-perception, relationships, and likely their behavior at home and school.
With all the ‘bad’ that we are exposed to every day, practicing this deliberate idea of doing kindness unto others with no expectation of reciprocity could be a life-changing experience, esp. for kids and adults who are struggling or feeling alone. Thanks again!