I don’t think I’ve made it a secret: My 2-year-old LOVES to read. Seriously. Anything and everything…She even flips through her daddy’s accounting magazines when desperate for material!
So when a neighbor graciously left a few books on our porch after seeing we had kids, she automatically scored points with her. I later researched and discovered the books are a part of Bucketfillers, Inc., which includes an adorable series of books, lesson plans, speaking engagements and more for teaching children about kindness. The author is Carol McCloud and the illustrator is David Messing.
The bucketfilling concept is simple: When you share, play nice or say nice things, you fill a bucket. When you’re mean, bully, or take things from others, you are a bucket dipper. It’s described as a new twist on the golden rule. It’s adorable…and genius!
For us, this idea totally works – even with a two-year-old. We love praising her when she “fills our bucket” by putting toys away, listening and saying “I love you.” And she perks up and looks sad the instant we say she is being a bucket dipper when she doesn’t want to share her toys or is being sassy with us (2-year-old temper tantrums, anyone?).
Between the simply put scenarios and colorful illustrations, these books seem to get through to her where we weren’t in the past. I love that the concept is from a Michigan gal who has turned the books into a successful business to help teachers and parents around the country — and world — teach kindness.
{If you’re a teacher, be sure to check out the free resources section here for great ideas to use in the classroom.}
I decided to reach out to the business to say how I’m a fan and mention I’d love to write about what they are doing on this blog. And guess what? I received a signed copy of Have You Filled A Bucket Today to give away! I highly recommend this book for kids of ALL ages. It’s wonderful for teaching kids about kindness, and after all, can’t we use more kindness in this world and less bullying? {This would make a great Christmas present, ya’ll!}
Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below. I will choose a winner next Friday, Oct. 26. This is open to all U.S. residents.
I was in no way compensated for this post. Words and opinions expressed are my own.
Learn more about Bucketfillers Inc. on Facebook | Twitter | Purchase book and more
This would be so cute for Mia when she gets a little older! Now I know what you meant when you said “you filled my bucket” on that cutsie video the other day. I thought it was a spin on “my cup runneth over” 😉
This looks so cute! My 3-year old could use these lessons I do believe!
Oh, this book looks fantastic!!!!! I’m sure my dd would love it!!!!
This looks great. I’m always looking for new ways to reinforce the importance of kindness.
Looking forward to reading this!
Today when my 3-year old told me she loved me 🙂
I’ve heard of this book, I must get it!
My twins cleaned up their toys without asking yesterday and then said “thank you so much for cooking dinner mama!”….major bucket fillers!
Hi Lauren, it’s been a while since I have been over here to your wonderful blog or communicated with you. How are you? I have this book, it is such an amazing book, love it.
My daughter’s 1st grade teacher used this concept and it really built a family around the kids.
My daughter has mentioned before how things we have done have filled her bucket.. Definitely has had to have come from this book series. I’m a big fan as well!
My son likes to go help his great-grandmother a few times a month.
What a great book, i love when my kids help around the house…it fills all of our buckets!!