Bear and the Kindness Jar
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This book about kindness will help your child understand what kindness means and why it is important to show kindness in everyday life! Your child will learn how to spread kindness in everyday situations through a simple story told with beautiful illustrations. The book supports your child's social-emotional development by teaching empathy, compassion, respect, and sharing. Join Bear and Rabbit on their Kindness Journey as Bear opens his kindness jar and teaches Bunny words and acts of kindness that can make the world a better place.
Age
3-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways Bear showed kindness in the story?
How did you feel when Bear helped his friends?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
Why do you think it's important to be kind?
What is one kind thing you would like to do tomorrow?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading, point out expressions on Bear’s face and the reactions of other characters to encourage empathy and understanding of emotions.
Ask your child to guess what might happen next based on Bear's actions, promoting predictability and understanding of consequences.
Relate kindness in the book to real-life situations your child might encounter, making the story more relevant and impactful.
After reading, consider creating a 'kindness jar' like in the book where your child can add notes of kind acts they've done, reinforcing positive behavior.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: In 'Bear and the Kindness Jar,' Bear shows various acts of kindness to his friends, filling a symbolic jar each time he helps or cares for someone.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their kind actions, no matter how small, can positively impact others and strengthen friendships.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: Bear learns to understand and share the feelings of his friends, which teaches him how to respond to their emotions appropriately.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to notice how their peers are feeling and to think about what they can do to help or make them feel better.
Example Lesson: Sharing and generosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bear shares his belongings and time without expecting anything in return, demonstrating the pure nature of giving.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the joy of sharing their own things and the positive effects it has on both them and their peers.
Example Lesson: The value of persistence
Explanation: Bear faces challenges but continues to perform acts of kindness, showing that persistence is key, even when things are difficult.
Real-World Application: It teaches children that continuing to strive and help others, even when it's hard, is rewarding and builds strong character.
Example Lesson: Recognizing and celebrating good deeds
Explanation: Each time the kindness jar fills up, Bear and his friends celebrate, which highlights the importance of recognizing good behavior.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to acknowledge and celebrate acts of kindness, both their own and others', fostering a positive community spirit.