Teaching Kindness in Schools: Benefits & Curriculum

How Teaching Kindness in Schools Transforms Students

The Power of Kindness in Early Education

One day, educator Laura witnessed a powerful moment: after a classmate got hurt, preschoolers spontaneously formed a "caring practice" circle to send well-wishes. This simple act revealed the profound impact of teaching kindness and mindfulness in schools.

Why Schools Need Kindness Programs

Research shows that schools emphasizing kindness and mindfulness see:

• Improved academic performance (higher grades in social-emotional development)
• Enhanced cognitive skills (better focus and flexible thinking)
• Stronger relationships (increased empathy and conflict resolution)

The Science-Backed Kindness Curriculum

Developed at UW-Madison's Center for Healthy Minds, this 12-week program teaches preschoolers through:

1. Creative activities: Kindness Gardens, Peace Wands
2. Engaging tools: Songs, stories, and movement

3. The ABCs of emotional intelligence:

   • Attention training
   • Breath and body awareness
   • Caring for others
   • Dependence awareness (interconnectedness)
   • Emotion recognition
   • Forgiveness practices
   • Gratitude development

Proven Benefits of Kindness Education

In controlled studies, students showed:

✅ 50% more sharing behavior
✅ Better emotional regulation
✅ Higher social-emotional development scores
✅ Improved executive functioning

3 Simple Ways to Practice "Kindfulness" at Home or School

1. Model mindful attention:

   • Make eye contact
   • Ask thoughtful questions
   • Be fully present

2. Daily breathing exercises:

   • Use a bell or chime
   • Practice 5 mindful breaths together

3. Caring phrases practice:

   "May you be safe, happy, healthy, and peaceful"

The Ripple Effect of Kindness Education

When schools prioritize kindness:

• Classroom environments become more supportive
• Students develop lifelong emotional intelligence
• Entire school cultures transform positively

This research-backed approach proves that teaching kindness belongs alongside traditional academics for holistic child development.