Fun Ways to Teach Kindness and Empathy

May 11, 2024 11:05 pm

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Here's a not-so-fun fact: Sleep is the top trigger for negative emotions.

And sleep is the #1 thing many parents desperately want and need more of.


That's where we come in.


Since sleep has sooo many holistic benefits (mental, physical, emotional), the best way to address the lack of sleep is holistically.


In an age where parents are tired, kids are wired, and content is weird...The Nap Time Show steps in as a movement towards reclaiming the joy and peace of restful moments together as a family.


But how? Keep reading!


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WHOLE FAMILY VIEWING = WHOLE FAMILY RESTING


These days, parents are giving most content "for" kids a major side-eye.


And we understand why!


  • Questionable storylines
  • Over-stimulating visuals
  • Inappropriate themes


Oh my! What ever happened to using our media powers for good??


With The Nap Time Show, whether you're practicing deep breathing with Ray the Radio, working through conflict with Bahb the Sheep, immersing in nature with Mister Boots, or peaking your imagination in DreamWorld, there's one thing you can trust:


Everything we make is created with care and intention.


Okay, we'll throw 2 more things you can trust in, too:


  1. It was made by a real family, for real families
  2. Everyone β€” from Junior to Grandma β€” can watch and enjoy


Need a pick-me-up? Check out our new Affirmations Song, full of inspiration.


Listen to the Affirmations Song


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Speaking of pick-me-up...


Did you know that kindness is, like, the ultimate mood booster?


Being kind and showing compassion can significantly reduce stress and anxiety.


And people who make kindness a regular part of their lives often report feeling more content, optimistic, and less lonely.


With that being said (or typed), here are some fun ways to teach kindness to your littles:


Fun Way #1: The Compliment Jar

Start by decorating a jar or a box with your kids, making it the designated "Compliment Jar." Whenever someone in the family does something kind, write a compliment for them and drop it in the jar. Set aside a special time each week to read these compliments aloud. This activity not only encourages positive behavior but also shows children the impact of kind words on others and themselves.


Fun Way #2: Role-Playing Scenarios

Children learn a lot through play, and role-playing is a fantastic way to teach empathy. Create scenarios where one person is in need of kindness or help, and encourage your child to think about how they would feel in that situation and how they can help. This hands-on approach helps kids put themselves in others' shoes, fostering empathy and understanding.


Fun Way #3: The Empathy Lesson from The Nap Time Show

In episode 2 of The Nap Time Show, our beloved characters Bahb and Siesta help Uki overcome her nervousness about trying new things. This episode beautifully illustrates that, sometimes, the solution to someone's problem is obvious to us, but by approaching with kindness and empathy, we can inspire them to take the steps needed for change. It's a perfect starting point for a discussion on empathy and kindness with your children.


Fun Way #4: Kindness Rocks

Take a walk with your children and gather some smooth rocks. At home, paint these rocks with kind messages or happy pictures. Once they're dry, go on a family walk to hide these rocks in places for others to find. This activity not only sparks creativity but also teaches children the joy of spreading kindness in unexpected ways.


Incorporating these activities into your family life will not only make learning about empathy and kindness fun but will also help your children develop into compassionate individuals.


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LET'S GET COZY!

We are SO excited to announce our new & improved website!


Beautifully designed and responsive, this new digital destination features:

πŸ”– FREE RESOURCES: from social emotional learning (SEL) coloring books to bonding activities and more, at no cost.

πŸ‘©πŸΎβ€πŸ’» WATCH SAFELY: Visit to watch episodes of The Nap Time Show without ever leaving our website (a request that’s been made by parents weary of the inappropriate social media content landscape).

🎁 MERCH IT UP: Our store is fully stocked with graphic tees, cozy blankets, character-inspired grabs and some extra special grown-up gear, too.


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To celebrate, we're offering FREE SHIPPING across the entire site. No code needed, it's already been applied.


Visit the New Website!


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We're making Soothing Banana Almond Smoothie, a creamy delight packed with ingredients known to help with rest and relaxation.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas (They're like nature's happy pills, full of potassium and magnesium to help soothe your nerves!)
  • 1 cup almond milk (Almonds are like little zen masters, rich in vitamin E and magnesium.)
  • A handful of spinach (It's not just for strength like Popeye says, but it's also great for calming with its magnesium superpowers!)
  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • A sprinkle of cinnamon

Let's Make Magic Together:

  1. Gather Around: Like Bahb and Siesta learned in Episode 2, we're better together...even when making a smoothie!
  2. Blend, Blend, Blend: Toss the bananas, almond milk, spinach, honey, and cinnamon into a blender. Then, let every family member take turns pressing the blend button. Watch as the ingredients whirl and twirl, dancing together to create something delicious.
  3. Pour and Share: Once your smoothie is smooth and creamy, pour it into your favorite glasses. Maybe even decorate it with a little umbrella or a straw for that extra splash of fun.
  4. Enjoy Together: Now, for the best part! Cheers!

This Soothing Banana Almond Smoothie is a little hug for your nervous system, making it the perfect snack to enjoy any time you need a moment of peace and happiness.


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Today's Birthday Shout-Out goes out to Nia H., who's turning 9-years-old!

Happy Birthday Nia!


Interested in having your little one featured in a newsletter on their birthday? Reply to this email!


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Before we say goodbye, a few announcements:


  • Are you based in Michigan and passionate about child care for all? Come to the Childcare Changemakers Retreat, hosted in partnership with the Ford Motor Company Fund! There will be a soft play area, insightful sessions, networking, free lunch, a grant giveaway AND some spa services. Spots are filling up fast for this FREE event! Register here.
  • Sending your kiddo to camp this summer? Here are the best ones in the country, according to Newsweek.
  • Folks and blogs are always talking about the value of routines, but what's the big deal? This blog from Hatch makes the case, simply and convincingly.
  • BLOG POST: How to Find Work-Life Harmony as a Parent


That's all for today's newsletter.


Until next time,

Keep Dreamin'

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