Catholic Activity: Kindness and Courtesy

Kindness and courtesy go hand in hand. Parents must emphasize these qualities by example.

DIRECTIONS

The mother and father who are considerate of each other are teaching kindness. Children are quick to respond to examples of kindness. Parents who are considerate of household pets are teach ing kindness to animals. If an atmosphere of kindness is present in the home, the parents will be rewarded by seeing this wonderful quality flourish in their youngsters.

Hand in hand with kindness goes courtesy. Courtesy is the art of thinking of others instead of oneself. Courtesy must be developed and absorbed at home. Children brought up in a courteous household are likely, as a matter of course, to offer their seats to older people, to open doors, and bring slippers. Hilaire Belloc has said, "It seems to me that the grace of God is in courtesy."

Activity Source: From Stroller to School, Parent-Educator Series 2, Leaflets 13-24, Three to Six Years by Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, 1962