Giving Grace - Why Kindness is Key in the Classroom
Yesterday, November 13th, was World Kindness Day. An annual day dedicated to the promotion and celebration of being kind to yourself and others, and being kind to the world. It is a great reminder that kindness binds us all together and that it doesn’t take much to brighten someone’s day.
Students spend a huge chunk of their lives in the classroom as they grow and develop, and they will learn about more than just fractions, the Boston Tea Party, or the periodic table as they pass from grade to grade. They are exposed to more social interactions and emotions, known as social and emotional learning (SEL).
Teachers and educators play a huge part in this, mainly in elementary education, but it continues all the way to high school graduation. School is a major social setting where students will watch your behavior as well as other students’ behaviors, which can ultimately influence their own behavior. You may not realize it, but your classroom is a place where your students will learn self awareness, decision making, relationship building skills, and more.
With that in mind, it is pertinent that educators and administrators lead with grace and kindness at all times. The impact you can have on a child’s life can be so big, so make sure that you are a positive role model in the classroom.
It’s important to use kind words and actions in your day-to-day interactions. It’s also important to communicate with your students to establish a trusting and supportive relationship, so they know they can talk to you about anything that is going on or bothering them.
When students see and experience kindness, it shows. They feel more confident, they are more willing to learn, and they are more likely to participate and engage in the classroom. You will also see it spread as students begin to pay it forward when they feel it.
Imagine a world without bullies - a world where nothing but nice words, high fives, hugs, and friendly invitations are shared. Wouldn’t that be nice? School shouldn’t be a place that gives children anxiety or stress. It shouldn’t be a place they want to avoid because another student is harassing them or making fun of them.
School should be a place for children to grow in a positive environment. Students should be able to go to school to make friends, learn new things, and find out what they are interested in without judgment from others.
This past week in North Carolina, a high school in Mooresville was shaken after there was an apparent suicide on their campus one morning. This heartbreaking incident goes to show that you truly never know what is going on in someone’s life. You never know a person’s internal struggle. So, be kind. Show empathy. Say hello. Be inclusive. Your words matter and hold weight, whether you believe it or not. You have the ability to make a difference!
Today’s world can be so divided and it is refreshing to pause and take a moment to be human. Smile at your neighbor, give a stranger a compliment, hold the door open, or invite someone new from work or class to lunch. You never know what can come from these simple acts of kindness.
How do you encourage kindness in your classroom? Tag us @leapedlive in Instagram and Twitter so we can see your kind words and actions. We want to see how you make someone smile!