aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	No subject
What age group	Preschool / Nursery
What topic	Being a kind friend
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Beginning a Lesson on Being a Kind Friend

Introduction: A Kindness Circle

Objective: To engage preschoolers in understanding the concept of being a kind friend while building their social skills and fostering a supportive classroom environment.

Materials Needed:

• A large soft ball or plush toy
• A circle of cushions or mats for seating
• A 'Kindness Jar' (a decorated jar with slips of paper)
• Markers and crayons

Lesson Start: The Warm Welcome

1. Gather the Children: Invite the children to sit in a circle on their cushions or mats. Ensure that everyone can see each other and feels comfortable.

2. The Kindness Ball Toss:

   • Introduce a large soft ball or plush toy. Explain that this ball is called the "Kindness Ball."
   • Tell the kids that when they receive the ball, they will share one kind thing they have done for a friend or one kind thing they would like to do for a friend.

   Example: “When it’s your turn to hold the ball, you can say, ‘I helped my friend pick up their toys’ or ‘I would like to share my crayons with someone.’”

3. Start the Game:

   • Begin by tossing the ball to a child. As they share their kind thought, encourage clapping or cheerful sounds from the rest of the group to create a positive atmosphere.
   • Continue passing the ball around the circle until everyone has had a chance to speak.

Transition to Kindness Jar Activity

4. Creating the Kindness Jar:

   • After everyone has shared, introduce the 'Kindness Jar'. Explain that the jar will be filled with ideas and thoughts about kindness.
   • Invite the children to draw pictures or write words (with help if needed) on slips of paper that represent kind actions.

   Example: They could draw a picture of two friends sharing or write ‘Hug’ or ‘Smile’.

5. Fill the Jar Together:

   • As the children add their slips to the jar, talk about how every kind action, big or small, adds to the kindness in their friends and the classroom.

Conclusion: Strengthening Friendships

Wrap up the activity by expressing how being kind makes us feel good inside and helps our friends feel happy. Let them know that they can do kind things every day, and they can think of ways to surprise each other with acts of kindness throughout the week.

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This engaging start to the lesson on being a kind friend not only introduces the topic but also creates an interactive and joyful atmosphere that encourages collaboration and empathy among preschoolers.