February is often known to many as the month of Love, but that love can come in many forms, Love of a Family, Love of Friendship, Love of Romantic Love, and simply Love of Earth/Animals/Humankind.
It is this writer's simple and humble opinion, that teaching children about empathy, kindness and philanthropy early in life is an essential part of raising well rounded individuals, who are vastly aware that the world is much broader and bigger than their small little bubbles. I have two daughters, both of whom absolutely love being kind and sharing with those who are less fortunate. In my 14 years as a mother, I have learned so much about love, kindness and empathy towards others from my own kids. Kids by nature are kind, caring creatures, and it is by their example we should follow sometimes, to learn lessons perhaps we missed along the way.
So where does that bring us? Well, as we kick off a new month in just a few days, let's make some impacts and conscious efforts to show love, kindness and empathy towards those around us, whether it be family, friends, or strangers. It costs us nothing to be kind to another person, and in contrast it is much more rewarding than we could ever envision.
So here are some ideas for you and your kiddos to get out there and show the Love!
- Send cards to kids in need/in hospitals: Free cards for hospitalized kids - St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
- Color - for a cause - Color A Smile is a nonprofit organization that distributes cheerful drawings to nursing homes, hospitals, meals on wheels programs, our troops overseas, and anyone in need of a smile. Fun and easy but with HUGE impacts. Providing Color Drawings to Senior Citizens, Troops & Others - Color A Smile
- Volunteer at a Food Shelter! This is a huge lesson for kids to understand, that not everyone is as fortunate as us - and every little bit we do to help is a big step to help those in need in our communities and beyond. Take Action | Feeding America
- Make "Lucky Paper Hearts" and give them to friends, family or random people in your community to brighten their day. Instructional video here: How to make Lucky paper hearts ♥️ 🧡💛💚💙💜 - Valentine’s Day / Mother’s Day craft
- Make some Dollar store Crafts and Give them out to family, friends or others in your community. (Think of folks that make an impact in your life, and recognize them for it with a sweet/kind gesture) Instructional video: 30 GORGEOUS 🤯 Dollar Tree DIY Crafts For Valentine's Day
Now that we shared some ideas to get you started, make a point to begin on February 1st and continue the Love Fest throughout the month and beyond!
Remember: "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."
Wishing you a month filled with love, laughter and incredible memory making moments with your loved ones.
A Millennial Mother
