Good morning, Prep School family,
I hope you are all well and enjoyed half term. I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing about everything your families got up to last week. You all had some great adventures be those near or far. I have to say I am a tiny bit jealous of those who managed to get some sun – Costa Del Nottingham was cold and rainy most days! I had a good break though, I took Arthur, Amelie and my dad to the zoo and Arthur and I ventured to Sheffield to the National Video Game Museum. I was quite hesitant about this as gaming really isn’t my thing but we had the best time. I spent most of my time playing on Super Mario Bros in 2-D and Arthur spent most of his time in awe that we used to play games in 2-D! It is worth a visit if you have children that are into computers and games. Apart from that, my week was spent reading, seeing friends and catching up on some sleep!
Saturday 17 February was a national day that I love to promote and actively try to take part in, not just on the day but throughout the year. It was Random Acts of Kindness Day. Random Acts of Kindness Day is a wonderful occasion that encourages people to spread love, compassion, and positivity through small, unexpected acts of kindness. I try and carry out random acts of kindness in all areas of my life, be it school, home or in my local community. At school, I host Spread a Little Happiness Club each week to help instil the love and importance of kindness and helping others find a little happiness within their day. I have a large group of children who help me to do this and who often think of the ways to do this independently. Another really important part of school life are the kindness trees that we have in both Prep Schools. Each week children, staff and now parents (which we love by the way!) nominate the children for a leaf to go on the tree. Our trees are brimming with the examples of kindness that our children show. With pride, I always point these out to any visitors we have in school. Random Acts of Kindness Day encourages individuals to perform simple, unexpected acts of kindness to brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity. It’s a day to celebrate the power of kindness and compassion. What is there not to like about that?
How to Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day through the year. . .
Celebrating Random Acts of Kindness Day is all about spreading love and positivity. We can do that easily in our daily lives. Here are some ideas to inspire acts of kindness but I am sure you can be inventive and think of a thousand more. Obviously some of these will need to be done with the permission of adults!
- Give Compliments: Offer sincere compliments to friends, family, and even strangers to brighten their day.
- Send Thoughtful Messages: Send uplifting messages or notes to friends, reminding them of your appreciation and support.
- Help a Neighbour: Assist a neighbour with tasks like moving their bins, mowing their lawn or carrying their shopping.
- Donate to Charity: Contribute to a charitable organisation or cause that you’re passionate about. This does need to be monetary – have a clear out of your clothes and toys.
- Visit the Elderly: Spend time with elderly individuals in nursing homes or assisted living facilities, offering companionship and a listening ear.
- Volunteer Your Time: Volunteer at local charities or community events to make a positive impact.
- Pay It Forward: When you’re at a coffee shop or drive-thru, pay for the order of the person behind you.
Random Acts of Kindness Day is a reminder that small gestures of kindness have the power to change the world. By spreading love and positivity, we can create a more compassionate and caring society. Take any opportunity this week to perform a random act of kindness and inspire others to do the same.
Quote of the week: “Together, we can make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.” Ron Hall
Well-being tasks for this week: These tasks are based on Friendly February. They are meant to inspire us to be friendly to others and give your relationships a boost. Have a go!
Tuesday 20 February – Make a plan to connect with others and do something fun
Wednesday 21 February – Really listen to people and what they are saying without judgement
Thursday 22 February – Give sincere compliments to people you talk to today
Friday 23 February – Be gentle with someone you feel inclined to criticise
Saturday 24 February – Tell a loved one about the strengths that you see in them
Sunday 25 February – Thank three people you feel grateful to and tell them why
Monday 26 February – Make uninterrupted time for loved ones
Jokes of the week:
What is brown, hairy, and wears sunglasses?
A cool coconut.
Two pickles fell out of a jar onto the floor. What did one say to the other?
Dill with it.
Why did the kid cross the playground?
To get to the other slide.
What kind of lion doesn’t roar?
A dandelion.
How do you stop an astronaut’s baby from crying?
You rocket!
Conversation starters:
If you could invent one new animal, what would it be?
If you could be any age for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
5 things that I am grateful for or looking forward to this week:
Can you try this simple exercise in gratitude and positivity?
- I am looking forward to celebrating our friends birthday on Saturday
- I am looking forward to the Year 4 Art Recitals this week
- I am looking forward to have a good sort out of a long overdue room at home
- I am grateful for the lighter mornings! What a difference!
- I am grateful for the excellent book recommendation
Sleeps til Santa: 308 sleeps. . .
I hope you all have a lovely week and enjoy getting back into the routine of school, just remember its only 4 and a half weeks until the Easter holidays!
With much love,
Mrs Bennett
