OPINION

Kindness. An abstract noun by definition. Something your five senses cannot detect. And yet, it is something that we all need to feel on a daily basis.

According to medical research, committing acts of kindness lowers blood pressure. Dr. David R. Hamilton states that, ‘acts of kindness create emotional warmth, which release a hormone known as oxytocin. Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide, which dilates the blood vessels. This reduces blood pressure and, therefore, oxytocin is known as a “cardio protective” hormone. It protects the heart by lowering blood pressure.’

We, as a school, have understood and recognised the power of this value and have thus woven kindness into our school’s ethos. We know that it is vital for the social and emotional development of our children.

During this academic year, we have enhanced our curriculum though the teaching of values. Kindness has been one of the values covered. Children have received hearts to celebrate random acts of kindness which they have performed. It has been astonishing to see the many kind acts that happen on a daily basis. As Princess Diana said, ‘Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.’

Finally, ‘remember there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.' – Scott Adams