A Dose of Kindness for Your Next Vacation

A family vacation is the perfect time to practice and model consideration for others, like helping and being friendly and polite with staff and other travellers. Olena Yakobchuk/Shutterstock

By Lynn O’Rourke Hayes From FamilyTravel.com

As poet and author Maya Angelou encouraged, we can all “be a rainbow in someone’s world.” And, today, a single act of kindness can go a long way toward brightening someone’s day.

In fact, research shows that encouraging kids to be kind has a positive influence on a slew of academic, health and social outcomes, including increased self-esteem, motivation to learn and resilience.

So why not incorporate an extra dose of kindness into your next family vacation?

Here are five ideas to consider:

1. Pack an Attitude of Gratitude

Leave impatience and judgment behind and showcase an attitude of gratitude as your travel resumes. Lead with a smile and offer thanks to those you meet along the way. From harried flight attendants, pilots, TSA agents, and front desk personnel. Include tour guides, bus drivers, restaurant servers, and room attendants and encourage the kids to say thank you whenever appropriate. Consider leaving a handwritten note or crayon drawing along with your tip, an extra effort sure to garner a smile from the recipient. If you loved your hotel stay, cruise or guest ranch experience, leave a note congratulating the whole crew for a job well done.