Looking for a meaningful way to teach your kids about kindness to police and gratitude in action?
Showing appreciation to your local officers is a great place to start. These men and women work hard to protect our communities, often behind the scenes and without much recognition. A small act of kindness can go a long way in encouraging and uplifting them.
If you’re a family looking to make a difference, here are 15 simple and thoughtful ways you can show kindness to the officers in your community.
Random Acts of Kindness for Police Officers
1. Drop Off Snacks
Bring individually wrapped snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or chips to the police station for officers to enjoy during their shifts.
2. Write Thank-You Cards
Sit down as a family and write heartfelt thank-you notes. Even a few kind words can mean a lot.
3. Bake Some Treats
Homemade cookies, muffins, or brownies are always appreciated. Be sure to package them neatly and label any allergens.
4. Draw Pictures
Younger kids can draw pictures for the officers—these often end up on bulletin boards or walls at the station.
5. Take Coffee Gift Cards
Pick up a few gift cards from local coffee shops and deliver them with a thank-you note.
6. Offer to Pray
Let officers know your family is praying for their safety. You can even ask if they have specific requests.
7. Share Scripture Cards
Print or handwrite encouraging Bible verses and package them nicely with ribbon or a small envelope.
8. Buy Lunch or Pizza
Call ahead and have lunch delivered to the station with a note that says, “Thanks for all you do!”
9. Appreciation Jars
Fill a jar with short notes of encouragement or quotes that officers can pull out when they need a boost.
10. Small Practical Gifts
Bring in simple, practical items like hand sanitizer, lip balm, or first-aid kits with a note of thanks.
11. Holiday Treat Bags
Include officers in your holiday traditions by dropping off treat bags during Christmas, Easter, or even the Fourth of July.
12. Send a Letter to City Officials
Write to your mayor, city council, or police chief expressing your appreciation for the department’s service.
13. Paint Kindness Rocks
Decorate rocks with positive messages and leave them outside the station as a cheerful surprise.
14. Record a Thank-You Video
Make a short video of your family thanking the officers and send it to the department’s public email.
15. Take a Potted Plant
Add a little life to their front desk or break room with a cheerful plant and a tag that says “Thank you for helping our community grow!”
Showing kindness doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, the most meaningful gestures are often the simplest. When families take time to recognize the work of their local police officers, it not only blesses the officers but also teaches children the value of gratitude, service, and community. So gather your crew and pick an idea or two—you might be surprised by how much joy you’ll spread.
