Create a Culture of Kindness Book Signing

“Raising Kind Kids” talk at the Doylestown Bookshop.

To purchase a copy of Create a Culture of Kindness in Middle School: 48 Character-Building Lessons to Foster Respect and Prevent Bullying, visit Free Spirit Publishing . Use coupon code CULTURE for a 25% discount! Also available on amazon.com

(Heidi Roux, Guest Blogger.)

The Create a Culture of Kindness in Middle School book launch, led by author Christa Tinari, had a celebratory feel and engaged every attendee present. On April 26^th at 6:30pm, the Doylestown Bookshop hosted an audience consisting of the book’s co-author Naomi Drew, community members, parents with children of various ages, non-profit leaders, teachers, and students.  During the free thirty-minute talk on “Raising Kind Kids” Christa Tinari provided a concise talk focusing on ways to foster empathy and understanding in children and youth. She shared with participants a handout consisting of 21 kindness tips and actions.  Access the 21 Kindness Tips here!

The interactive conversation that ensued included practical ways to implement the ideas at home and school. Ms. Tinari’s passion and expertise ignited a momentum for change among the crowd. The audience’s enthusiasm was contagious and many said they felt better prepared and were excited to take more action for kindness!

Following the talk, there was no shortage of audience questions. They ranged from concerns about school environment to the current social climate. The audience disclosed and shared details about personal accounts of bullying. Tough questions arose such as, “How do I stop bullying among a group of my three-year-old daughter’s friends?” from one concerned mother. Ms. Tinari’s response included a brief overview of developmental stages in children and cited several research studies. She discussed inclusion, and how that affects group dynamics among youth. The author emphasized the importance of communication and support for anyone facing challenging situations. “You can make a positive impact on a victim of bullying by simply offering support. Support strategies include sending a complimentary text message, offering to walk or sit with the victim, and reassuring the victim that the bully’s criticisms and harsh words are uncalled for and untrue. Every student can use a support strategy- even students who are shy themselves. Support strategies have been found to act as a defense against the pain that bullying inflicts.”

After signing the purchased books, Ms. Tinari sent attendees off with a small goodie bag with a “kindness makes a difference sticker,” chocolate kisses, and a reminder of one of the 21 tips. They also walked away empowered by having learned a lesson or two from the author and her book, Create a Culture of Kindness in Middle School: 48 Character-Building Lessons to Foster Respect and Prevent Bullying.

As a prelude to the book launch, PeacePraxis created a virtual event on social media which asked for random acts of kindness to be performed. Participants shared their efforts using #actionforkindness. In the morning, Ms. Tinari presented a talk on “Creating a Culture of Kindness at School” to 75 NJ educators and counselors. Dragonfly Yoga Studio joined as an Action for Kindness Partner, and hosted a free, lunch-hour compassion meditation class that was well attended. Another event was co-sponsored by Girls Empowered and Nina’s Waffles which focused on raising self-esteem and provided an interactive photo booth with positive affirmations. Thanks to the Doylestown Bookshop, Dragonfly Yoga Studio, Girls Empowered and Nina’s Waffles for partnering with PeacePraxis to celebrate Action for Kindness Day 2017!

To purchase a copy of Create a Culture of Kindness in Middle School: 48 Character-Building Lessons to Foster Respect and Prevent Bullying, visit Free Spirit Publishing . Use coupon code CULTURE for a 25% discount!