
Performing acts of kindness is a great way to teach kids empathy and to make giving back to the community a habit—it’s also really good for chasing away the winter blues. These free printable random acts of kindness cards are the perfect way to get started.
I don’t know how you’re feeling, but I’m at peak winter blues over here. I’m always tired. I have no motivation. And I go from zero to livid at record-breaking speed. I imagine I’m not a ton of fun to be around lately.
Long, gray winters do this to me. I’m tired of looking at colorless skies and dead branches. I need some green on the trees outside my window and to feel a little warm sunshine on my face. It’s even worse when every time I open up Facebook I seem to be assaulted with a barrage of angry complainers who have no interest in doing anything about the things they’re angry about (unless bitching counts. They’re totally into that).
Since we can’t control other people or the weather, we have to create our own good vibes. Chocolate helps. Taking time to write down the things you’re grateful for each day does too. But one of my favorite ways to break out of a funk is performing random acts of kindness. It feels good to make other people feel good—and there’s an added rush when you do it in secret.
I did this fun activity with my Girl Scouts troop a couple of months ago and it’s so easy to recreate yourself or with your whole family.
Printable random acts of kindness cards
I created these cute printable kindness cards that are easy to slip in anywhere to let someone know that you think they’re awesome. They’re small enough to be stealthy but cheery enough to brighten someone’s day.
For my Girl Scouts, I made sure to give them a mission. We taped lollipops to the backs of the cards and the girls signed their names to them. Their job was to spend the next two weeks as Kindness Ninjas: handing out little doses of sunshine to people who seemed in need of a pick-me-up. They passed them out to teachers, parents, siblings, and friends. They were absolutely giddy with excitement and, to be honest, I am too.
This week, I’m going to keep a stack of these in my purse and leave them in places around town in hopes of brightening someone’s day. I’m not sure if I’ll give them to specific people or leave them in places where people might need a boost. I’m going to go with the flow—and I’m definitely going to get my daughters in on it with me.
Raising kind humans is my number one goal in life and I truly believe that little things like this go a long way.
I’ll be posting our adventures on Instagram using the hashtag #KindnessCuddles and would love it if you joined me!
Feel free to use your own messages of kindness and encouragement or use mine! You can have these “Hello, I think you’re awesome” cards delivered straight to your inbox. I print them out on cardstock so they’re nice and sturdy and will add little bonus treats as we see fit.
That’s so great and cheerful. Just like you, I have no motivation during winter time. Thanks for sharing with us.
I need sunshine and some other than a gray sky every once in a while!
What an awesome inspiration! Right now I’m still teaching my kiddo how to listen, but being kind is next right there
Hahahaha, listening is definitely up there… That said, my husband still doesn’t listen so don’t beat yourself up too much. Lol.
What a wonderful idea. What a great way to make someone smile.
This is such an amazing idea! You have inspired me to do the same! I’m checking your Instagram out!
Great idea! It’s great that you’re getting your kids involved. It’s a great thing for them to show kindness to others.
I appreciate, this is such an amazing idea to brighten up someone’s day! I believe , I’ll too replicate and bring smiles on the faces. Cheers to you!