Rock Hunting (photo credit: Grace Church)

Week #204 – Summer Fun Challenge: Spread Good Words!  (Here are three ways to do it!)

Greetings, All — and Happy Friday!!!

We are counting down the Fridays between now and Labor Day Weekend with some short “Summer Fun” suggestions.  Because —  as I’ve said each week — while many adults are busy planning their kids’ summer fun, they often overlook their own!

So I want to make sure you’re having fun too!

But with back-to-school looming — I want to make sure you are prepared to send your kids (or young adults, or teacher-friends, etc.) back to their classrooms with words of encouragement!

Here are THREE WAYS to spread good words to those headed back to school in the weeks ahead!

1. Rock Painting — This is part of a larger movement called “The Kindness Rocks Project” — which is apparently where it all started.  Chances are, someone in your county or region has a Facebook page set up to post pictures of painted rocks, hints about where they are hidden, and pictures of them being found.  The overall message is one of creativity, connection, and community.  And I cannot think of a better way to Spread Happyness than to plant inspiring messages for students to find on their way to/from school!

2. Sidewalk Chalking — Another Facebook friend (a mom in California) was busy decluttering all last summer when she discovered a bunch of sidewalk chalk.  Rather than dump it, she opted to write inspirational messages on her driveway/sidewalk to her kids as they headed back to school — and she invited other parents in her neighborhood to do the same!  The result — kids on their way to/from school were inundated by messages of love, encouragement, and wise advice as they began a new school year.

3. Parking Lot Painting/Chalking — Some schools around the country are allowing their students (especially seniors) to paint/chalk their parking spots for the year.  Check with your school first…but this may be something you can start in your own community.  Sending students into their senior years (especially) with words of wisdom and encouragement could be a beautiful thing!  (Just remember…be sure to check with your school first!)

What other ways could you spread words of love, encouragement, advice, or support to a returning student/teacher/administrator this week?