World Kindness Day is an international holiday dedicated to promoting kindness in local communities and on a national scale. On November 13, the world is encouraged to be especially kind to others and promote positivity. 

          The World Kindness Movement writes, “The day is meant to highlight good deeds in the community, focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us.”

          In the Foran community, teachers support students by having an open, positive environment where students can feel comfortable. The school offers multiple programs that help students take risks to push themselves to the best of their abilities. 

          Not only is a positive environment from their teachers important, but students feeling welcomed and heard by each other is a priority for teachers as well. 

          Health teacher Mr. Jeff Raucci states, “The young generation is much more accepting, however, less empathic.” 

          Due to a lack of in person relationships and social skills, teens have become less personable. This can have a negative impact on relationships and reaching out to friends. 

          English Teacher Ms. Victoria DePalma can verify that “each year there is a lack of communication because of phones…you don’t see social interaction like kids giving high fives and yelling out ‘hi’ to friends as much anymore.”

          From 2005 to 2015, depression has skyrocketed in Americans ages 12 and older, mainly seen in teens. However, feeling supported by peers can release happy chemicals in the brain such as oxytocin and serotonin. This can lower depression and anxiety. 

          Most teens nowadays are dependent on their cellphones, which results in social anxiety and lack of communication. It’s important for teens to recognize that small things matter, such as making eye contact when speaking. 

          Communication skills are declining and teens are having difficulty learning the importance of being kind and empathetic. Empathy is defined as the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. 

          Something as simple as a smile can make someone’s day. Smiling can also provide multiple benefits to overall health at any age. A smile can make you feel confident and makes you feel and appear happier. 

          When you smile you release endorphins, which have many positive physical effects such as lowering blood sugar and blood pressure, reducing stress, boosting immune systems, and releasing natural painkillers and serotonin. 

          How to increase your daily smile average to take advantage of these benefits? The first step is easy, start your day with a smile. Smiling is contagious, and when we smile we activate neurons in the brain that fire a synchronizing feature. 

          You will notice that one smile will lead to additional smiles not just for you, but for those around you. Next time you see peers in the hallway, remember to smile and promote positivity.