Swing Into Kindness: A Mini-Grant Story
Ms. Koch is an Indiana teacher who says, "teaching service and philanthropy to students builds leadership skills, confidence, empathy, and a culture centered on kindness and helping others."
Fifty Kindergarten and 1st grade students participated in the service-learning project Swing Into Kindness with the help of a Learning to Give mini-grant. After infusing aspects of the lessons No Boundaries, Friendship and Belonging, and Spreading the Kind Word, students learned how to communicate with one another and advocate for themselves and their peers.
The students created a video celebrating the differences and similarities of those with disabilities. The Disabilities Awareness video was shared with the entire school through the school news. Students then purchased an inclusive swing to add to the school playground.
"I am different because I am a twin and he is different than me because he likes peanut butter, but we can still be friends," reflected one student.
The grant allowed for the students to purchase an inclusive swing for the school playground. The playground is in a central neighborhood and is often used by community members outside of school hours.
"Students are reminded of their student action and role in securing a swing for special needs peers on the playground," said Koch. "They were part of the building and installation of the swing, and the kindness campaign."
Watch the students' video here!