One of the best additions to the school since the APA has been revitalized is the multi-cultural bulletin board in the hallway. Each month a different culture is featured, bringing awareness of different populations, many of which are a part of the Seed. This month’s is focused on Ramadan, which began at sundown on February 28. The bulletin board theme is random acts of kindness, which is a practice especially encouraged during Ramadan. Here are the acts of kindness included:
- plant a flower or tree
- use water carefully
- help prepare dinner
- water the plants
- be kind to kids that are younger than you
- make a homemade gift for someone
- help take care of your pets
- write a thank you note to your teacher
- smile at everyone you see today
- switch off lights when not needed
- feed a meal to the homeless
- gift one of your favorite toys to someone
- donate food to a food bank
- help set the table
- donate unused items to charity
- call a loved one you don’t see often
- say yes when a friend asks you to play
The bulletin board also has a roll of stickers, so anyone who completes an act of kindness can place a sticker on that item. What I like about this is that, in addition to teaching us more about Ramadan, the bulletin board of acts of kindness reminds us of the universal qualities/practices that we all share, regardless of our spiritual path. It’s also a good message for us to remember that the small acts in our lives add up and certainly make a difference. Additionally, it’s a practice that kids can do, too. In fact, learning to serve others is a core practice we promote at the Seed. I invite you to check out the bulletin board with your child and feel free to add a sticker for any acts of kindness you’ve done lately.