Creating a Culture of Kindness in Your School

As a school counselor, you play a pivotal role in shaping the emotional climate of your school. When students feel safe, valued, and respected, they’re more likely to engage, build healthy relationships, and thrive academically and socially. One of the most effective ways to foster this environment is by intentionally promoting a culture of kindness.

Why Kindness Matters

Kindness isn’t just a “nice-to-have” trait—it’s a foundational skill that supports emotional regulation, empathy, and positive peer interactions. Research shows that when students practice kindness, they experience increased well-being, reduced stress, and improved behavior.

This philosophy is deeply rooted in Boys Town’s educational approach. As Scott Hartman, Senior Director of National Community Services at Boys Town, explains:

“Father Flanagan firmly believed that if you wanted true, long-lasting learning, it can best be done through kindness, care and concern and not through fear of pain and punishment.”

By helping students build relationships through kindness and compassion, counselors create safe spaces where growth and learning flourish.

Practical Ways to Promote Kindness in Counseling Settings

Here are a few strategies you can use in individual sessions, small groups, or school-wide initiatives:

1. Model Kindness

Students notice how adults treat others. Use kind language, show appreciation, and demonstrate empathy in your interactions. A simple “I’m glad you’re here” or “Thank you for sharing” can make a big impact.

2. Kindness Challenges

Encourage students to set personal kindness goals: “Give three compliments this week” or “Include someone who’s left out.” Track progress and celebrate their efforts.

3. Check-In Prompts

Start group sessions or classroom visits with a kindness-focused question: “What’s one kind thing you did or saw today?” or “How can you show kindness when someone is upset?”

4. Use Books That Teach Kindness

Boys Town Press offers excellent tools for counselors:

• • • • • Kindness Counts by Bryan Smith teaches young readers about random acts of kindness. It can be supplemented with downloadable activities like Kindness Bingo and an Acts of Kindness Tree—great for small groups or classroom guidance lessons.
        • He’s Not Just Teasing! by Jennifer Licate is ideal for grades 4–7. It explores the difference between teasing and bullying and helps students learn self-advocacy and bystander responsibility. The Teacher and Counselor Activity Guide makes it easy to extend the learning.

Supporting Whole-Child Development

Kindness is a key component of whole-child development.  When embedded into your counseling work, it helps students:

• Build empathy by understanding others’ feelings.
• Strengthen communication through respectful dialogue.
• Develop self-awareness by reflecting on their behavior.
• Make responsible decisions in social situations.

These skills not only improve school climate but also prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

Final Thoughts

Creating a culture of kindness doesn’t require a big budget or elaborate programs—it starts with small, intentional actions. As a counselor, you have the opportunity to lead this movement and help students become their best selves in a supportive, compassionate environment.