Kindness In Action: How Observers Can Respond to Conflict
Kindness In Action is a brief training that equips participants with simple, effective tools to safely support caregivers and children during stressful public moments. Participants will learn how small, thoughtful actions can help de-escalate conflict, foster connection, and create more supportive environments.
Kindness in Action is adapted partially from the OneKindWord (OKW) curriculum developed by Family Resources of Pittsburgh whose goal was to prevent child abuse.
Why is Kindness In Action Important?
Parents and caregivers often experience moments of stress in public settings. How others respond in those moments can make a meaningful difference.
Core Framework: Distract – Connect – Assist
Participants learn and practice a simple, flexible approach they can use in real time:
- Distract: Gently shift attention to reduce tension
- Connect: Acknowledge and empathize with the caregiver or child
- Assist: Offer practical, supportive help when appropriate
What Participants Gain
Participants leave with practical, actionable tools to:
- Identify situations where supportive intervention may be helpful
- Feel more confident managing their own reactions in stressful moments
- Support families during challenging moments
- Promote empathy and understanding in everyday interactions
- Help create safer, more compassionate public spaces
Get Trained in Kindness In Action
Who Is This For?
- Staff who interact with the public
- Healthcare, education, and community-based professionals
- Organizations that serve children and families
- Anyone who may encounter caregivers and children in stressful moments
How It Works
- This interactive 1-hour training combines education, discussion, and practice in order to:
- Understand how stress impacts behavior
- Assess safety before stepping in
- Build skills to regulate your own emotional responses
- Practice real-life scenarios
About the Training Team
Kindness In Action is led by master’s- and doctoral-trained, trauma-informed facilitators from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Interested in bringing Kindness In Action to your team?
Contact Caitlin Axtmayer at Axtmayerc@chop.edu to learn more or schedule a training.
If you live in the state of Pennsylvania and you suspect child abuse or neglect, call ChildLine at 1-800-932-0313
