Objective: To help children understand the concept of bucket filling and its impact on their family members and themselves.
Materials:
- Small plastic buckets or cups for each family member
- Pom-poms or colored beads
- Permanent markers
- Construction paper or cardstock for certificates
- Stickers or other decorative items (optional)
Activity:
Introduction:
Begin by reading the book "Have You Filled a Bucket Today?" together as a family. Discuss the main idea and message of the book.
Bucket Decorating:
Give each family member a small plastic bucket or cup. Spend time together personalizing and decorating these buckets with names, stickers, drawings, etc. This will represent each person's personal "bucket."
Filling Buckets:
Explain that throughout the week, whenever someone does something kind or positive for another family member, they can add a pom-pom or bead to that person's bucket. This can be for actions like helping with chores, sharing toys, giving compliments, or simply offering a hug.
Bucket Filler Certificates:
Create simple certificates titled "Family Bucket Filler of the Week." Every week, award this to the family member who has made a notable effort in filling others' buckets. Encourage other family members to give reasons or specific examples of why that person deserves the certificate for that week.
Memory Sharing:
As an extension activity, you can create a "Bucket Memory" jar. Every time someone does something exceptionally kind, jot down the act on a piece of paper with the date and place it in the jar. On special occasions or at the end of the year, gather around and read these memories, reflecting on the positive moments.
Spread the Kindness:
Encourage your children to think of ways they can fill the "buckets" of people outside of the family—maybe a neighbor, a friend, or even someone they see while out on errands. This helps children understand that acts of kindness can be extended beyond the household.
Doing this activity at home promotes a positive environment, reinforces family bonds, and helps children understand the value and impact of their actions on others. It's also a fantastic way for parents to set examples of kindness and appreciation for their children to follow.
