Discussing kind behavior together will encourage and remind children that kind behavior is valued. Brainstorm with the class to list ways to be kind. Create a banner to record the class suggestions and serve as a visual reminder. Since preschoolers usually can't read yet, draw pictures to represent the ideas. For example, a broom can represent helping clean up, a bag of chips can represent sharing a snack, and a line of kids can represent waiting your turn.
You can tell children that unkind words cannot be taken back, but providing a physical demonstration makes a lasting impact. A good way to model this concept is to squeeze toothpaste out of its tube. Show the class that once the toothpaste comes out, it cannot be put back in the tube. Though they can apologize for unkind words, once they come out of their mouths they can never be put back.
To encourage kind behavior in a preschool classroom, it must be rewarded. One way to do this is to create a kindness tree. Cut the tree trunk and branches out of brown paper or paint with brown paint on a poster board. Prepare a stack of flowers using colored construction paper. Every time a child is observed being kind, allow him to write his name on a flower and tape the flower to the tree.
Circle time is a good opportunity to incorporate stories that teach kindness. "The Lion and the Mouse" will teach that even a little mouse can do an act of great kindness. It encourages preschoolers that even though they may be little kids, by being kind they can do great things. Other options include "The Giving Tree," which teaches about giving selflessly, and "The Rainbow Fish," which encourages sharing with others.