Random Acts of Kindness Week Plan
Plan and carry out one secret act of kindness each day for a week — building empathy, planning skills, and the joy of giving.
What You'll Need
- 1Paper for planning chart
- 2Markers or pens
- 3Supplies for specific acts (note paper, baking supplies, etc.)
What You'll Need
Paper for your week-long kindness plan
Markers or pens
Supplies specific to each act (note paper, baking ingredients, craft supplies, etc.)
How to Play
On Sunday, sit together and plan seven acts of kindness — one per day.
Brainstorm together: leave a kind note, make someone's bed, bring cookies to a neighbor, compliment a stranger.
Write each act on a calendar or chart with the scheduled day.
Each day, carry out the planned kindness. Try to keep it secret when possible.
At dinner, share what you did: "I left a funny drawing on dad's pillow!"
Discuss reactions: "How do you think they felt? Did anyone notice?"
Friday night, reflect on the week: "Which act felt the best? Why?"
Why It Works
Planning kindness ahead of time turns it from a random impulse into an intentional practice. When kids sit down and think about who needs kindness and what would make someone's day better, they're practicing advanced empathy — considering another person's needs and preferences. The secret element adds excitement, and the nightly sharing creates accountability. Research shows that performing acts of kindness increases the giver's happiness even more than the receiver's. A full week of practice can shift a child's default orientation toward generosity.
Tips
Include acts for strangers, friends, family, and even pets. Varying the recipient broadens empathy.
Secret kindness is powerful, but visible kindness matters too. Mix both.
If a planned act doesn't work out, adapt: "The neighbor wasn't home, so let's leave the cookies at the door."
Continue the tradition monthly. Kindness weeks become kindness months become kindness lifestyles.
Age Adaptation Tips
School-age kids can take more ownership. Let them lead the activity, experiment with variations, and explain what they learned.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 15 min, with 15 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: paper for planning chart, markers or pens, supplies for specific acts (note paper, baking supplies, etc.).
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 5-8 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors or outdoors?
This activity works great both indoors and outdoors, giving you flexibility based on the weather or your space.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
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Schedule this activity into your family's week. It takes about 15 min.
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