Kindness Messages: A Fun Exploration
Materials Needed:
- Paper (plain or construction paper)
- Crayons, markers, or colored pencils
- Whiteboard or large sheet of paper (optional, for brainstorming)
Lesson Activities:
1. Deconstructing the Message (5-10 mins)
Let's look at the message that sparked our lesson today: "hello hope you are being nice to your mum :)"
- "hello" - What is this part? (A greeting! How else do we greet people?)
- "hope you are being nice to your mum" - What is this part about? (It expresses a wish for good behavior, focusing on kindness towards a specific family member). Why is being nice important, especially to family?
- ":)" - What is this? (A smiley face! How does adding this change the message? It makes it sound friendly and cheerful.)
2. Kindness Brainstorm (10 mins)
The message talks about being nice to 'mum'. Let's brainstorm all the ways someone can be nice to their mum (or another family member/friend)! Think of big things and small things.
(Optional: Write these ideas down on a whiteboard or large paper).
Examples:
- Saying thank you
- Helping with a chore without being asked
- Giving a hug
- Drawing them a picture
- Sharing
- Listening when they talk
- Using kind words
3. Create a Kindness Card/Note (15-20 mins)
Now it's time to practice! Choose one person (mum, dad, sibling, friend, pet!) you want to show kindness to.
- Take a piece of paper. You can fold it to make a card if you like.
- Think of a kind message you want to send them. It could be a 'thank you', an 'I love you', or a compliment. You can use ideas from our brainstorm!
- Write your message. Remember to include a greeting (like 'Hello' or 'Dear...') and maybe even a friendly closing or a smiley face!
- Decorate your card or note with drawings.
4. Understanding Tone (5 mins)
Let's think about how we *say* things. Try saying "Clean your room" in a grumpy voice. Now say it in a cheerful voice. How does it sound different? Adding a smiley face to a written message is like using a cheerful voice – it shows friendliness!
5. Wrap-up and Share (5 mins)
Would you like to share the kindness card/note you made? (Optional – respect if the student wants to keep it private to give later).
What is one kind thing you plan to do today after our lesson?
Remembering to be kind in our words and actions makes everyone happier!