“Be kind, be kind, be kind”
As you know, the Cargilfield’s golden rule is ‘be kind, be kind, be kind’. As well as offering a full curriculum covering a wealth of subjects, alongside an extra-curricular programme that is bursting, teaching children to be kind is part of the everyday essence at Cargilfield. Even small acts of kindness create feelings of self-worth and belonging. I find a smile, and a child rushing to hold a door open for me saying “good morning” makes me start of the day with a spring in my step. This in turn creates better concentration and improved results. Kindness is a key ingredient that helps children feel good. Patty O'Grady, an expert in emotional learning reports that “kindness changes the brain by the experience of kindness. Children and adolescents do not learn kindness by only thinking about it and talking about it. Kindness is best learned by feeling it so that they can reproduce it.”
There are a number of physical and mental health benefits that can be achieved by being kind. Altruistic actions trigger a release of the hormone oxytocin, which can significantly increase a person’s level of happiness and reduce stress levels. Kindness is a key ingredient that enhances positivity and helps children feel good about themselves as it increases serotonin levels. This important chemical affects learning, memory, mood, sleep, health, and digestion.
It’s become quite clear that modern education ought to encompass more than just academics, and that matters of the heart must be taken seriously and nurtured as a matter of priority, which is exactly the ethos we foster at Cargilfield.
What are you doing today to be kind to someone? Perhaps writing a small note for a friend, helping an older relative with their shopping or simply smiling at someone as they walk past. These small gestures can make a huge difference to someone’s day.
Laura Webber
Form 4 teacher
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