Where I live in South Florida, drivers are not known for being kind. Whenever I back out of my driveway, I know it will only be a matter of time before someone will cut me off or honk at me. Every once in a while, however, a kind driver motions for me to merge into the long line of traffic and allows me to cut in front of her. Aaaah! The endorphines rush through my body, and  I can’t wait to extend the favor to another driver. Why? Because kindness is contagious!

This is a concept that needs to be taught to children at an early age. Toddlers are not known for being kind and genreous. They want what they want when they want it. Then need to be taught how to share and honor others because it does not come naturally.

Kindness is contagious is the idea being my book The Boy on The Yellow Bus. The story begins with Sam, a new boy in town, boarding the yellow school bus and wondering where he will sit. When a young boy offers to share his seat with Sam, Sam is grateful and a chain reaction of kindness begins. Sam then helps Sue, who dropped her lunch box in the mud. Then Sue shares her lunch with Brian, and Brian sticks up for Kim on the playgound, and Kim helps her mother after school.  And that’s the way the whole day went—and that’s how kindness starts. When someone cares and someone gives it blesses people’s hearts.

The next few pages remind us that we should be kind and share because that is what God wants us to do. Another good reminder is included in a verse that says: Sometimes people never see the good things that you do. But God sees every single time and He is pleased with you.

Picture books are a great way to teach children many of life’s lessons. They give concrete examples and visual lessons in an enjoyable and entertaining format. And when the stories help little ones learn more about how God wants us to live–it all has a greater purpose.

The best way to teach your children to be kind is to model it. So when you are out and about today, let someone cut in the long line of traffic and start a chain reaction of kindess.

Love your little ones. Pray with them. And read every day.

Crystal