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Kindness Habit 4:

Stretch Your Imagination

Get inspired by
great stories

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What is it?

July trip to Krypton not fitting into your summer vacation plans? Never fear, stories are here! When kids read stories about characters facing relatable dilemmas they learn how to empathize with those around them. Even better, relatable dilemmas can happen in even the most un-relatable places! So hop on that story-rocket. A galaxy far away is closer than you think!

Why is it important?

Think back to your own childhood and your favorite stories. Chances are you don’t just remember the story, you remember how the story made you feel. It takes a lot of imagination to see the world from someone else’s eyes. The more kids use their imagination, the more they learn how to relate to people in the real world too. You know, the one here on Earth. For now at least :)

Help kids get the habit

Create a daily routine:

Carve out time in your family's busy schedule for some reading fun! Start with 5 minutes a day and see what happens!

Delight with discovery:

Kids say their favorite books are usually the ones they pick out themselves! Go on a treasure hunt to the library or bookstore this weekend :)

Pause and probe:

“What would you do if you were her? What do you think would make him feel better?” Take a moment to pause the story and ask questions about characters’ thoughts, emotions and desires.

Enjoy stories, together:

From family book clubs to movie nights, start a story sharing tradition. Popcorn optional, but suggested :)

Activities

Stretch Your Imagination at home :) These are ideas to inspire new traditions. Did you know when kids are asked to teach it makes ideas more memorable?

Story Walk

A new way to look at our favorite stories!

Mojo and The Maze

Watch these videos and discuss!

Kindness Creation Challenge: Do you have an new idea for how to Practice Kindness? Adults, submit your family’s ideas here for a chance to share it with the world!

Following our #SummerKindnessSeries? Tell us what you think here

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*Research and material is sourced and adapted from Unselfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed In Our All-About-Me World.

Learn more about Dr. Michele Borba