GrownUps New Zealand

Compliment Presents

Good ideas should be shared. When school finished last week, my son came home with a present from his class, organised by the teacher – a compliment present.

Christmas is about sharing love and kindness, and all too often, there is pressure to spend money, when putting in time and thought is far more meaningful. The following is something that could be a wonderful family tradition, or a more positive version of workplace ‘secret Santas.’

The teacher had given all the children names of five of their classmates, and asked them to think of a compliment for each of person.

The kids then wrote their compliments on a little paper ‘present,’ then decorated and folded them, and stuck them on to a sheet of paper. Their sentiments were anonymous, which gave them the freedom to say whatever they liked.

Each child came home with a fabulous gift – little notes of kindness and positivity – my son’s is on his bedside table and I’ve found him re-reading them several times. It was a simple and gorgeous gesture – and so much more in keeping with the spirit of the season than simply handing out lollies or cheap plastic toys.

Bravo to his lovely teacher! Who do you know who would love to receive a compliment present?