Kindness Counts

A parent would reach for this book when their child is struggling with social frustration, perhaps feeling justified in being mean because a friend or sibling was mean to them first. It provides a gentle framework for understanding that our own behavior should be guided by kindness rather than by how others treat us. The story follows Brother Bear as he learns that being the bigger person is more rewarding than holding a grudge. Through the familiar lens of the Bear Country community, the book explores themes of empathy and patience within the elementary age range. It is particularly helpful for families who value faith-based character building, as it explicitly connects the concept of kindness to the Golden Rule. Parents will appreciate how it transforms a common playground conflict into a teachable moment about integrity and social responsibility.