The Kindness Club

You probably have heard the expression “Choose Kind” quite a bit these past couple of years due to the popular children’s book and now movie, “Wonder.”  Drawing from the book’s message, the Oldham County Public Library started The Kindness Club.  This new monthly community service program is open to elementary aged children and has 1-2 sessions a month. The response to the new program has been overwhelming!

The program started with the children introducing themselves.  I liked this introduction part, because after all, it’s a club, the children should also get to know each other.  Librarian, Susan Bunting read the picture book, “We’re All Wonders” by R.J. Palacio.  There was a brief discussion on kindness and the children were eager to share their thoughts and ideas.  They shared ways they have seen others show kindness and they also brainstormed ways the club could help the community for future monthly dates.  It was moving to hear the thoughts of the young children.

So far, the Kindness Club has created Valentine’s Day cards for members of the Oldham County community and then switched it up and made bird feeders and nesting bags to take home.  Each project chosen is one that can be done at the library together. There is a good variety of grades represented and the content is appropriate for each elementary age level.

My children end up leaving feeling joyful and eager to think of ways to show kindness to those around them.  I love that the club asks children to think of how to show kindness, but also teaches them to recognize it around them.

New “members” are always welcome, but make sure you register online early because this is a popular program.  So far, the program is meeting at the Main Branch in LaGrange, but always check the children’s calendar for recent information.