"Bridge to Kindness goes beyond human relationships. Last year the children were introduced to the concepts of eco-consciousness and eco-tolerance. Again, through active play. 

Each group received its own mascot, such as a cuddly toy in the form of a hat, lion, or bear. Following a draw of lots, the toy visited a child's family for the weekend. The toy was expected to participate in all the family's activities during its stay. Last year these activities focused on eco-tolerance and eco-consciousness, and this year our theme is kindness. If I have to put it in figures - between 70 and 80% of parents take part in our activities, which are related to hiking in the mountains, cleaning, playing games, "- says Aleksova.

Of course, lasting educational initiatives also depend on institutional support. 

"Because along with kindness, we must learn to respect not only the person in front of us, the adult, but also every child, because children are our equal partners too," says the director. 

And every year on Children's Day, the first of June, the kindergarten puts on a show on a big stage with all the children taking part. 

"Because in addition to building a core set of values, we also have the task of building self-esteem in children. And what could be better than giving a child the opportunity to express himself in the most creative and positive way," asks Emilia Aleksova rhetorically. 

"There are no grumpy teachers or assistants here. Everyone is smiling and friendly. I think that is my greatest achievement. As the old people in Bulgaria say, "what goes around comes around". 

And so, with a smile, we end today's story about an exemplary small town kindergarten in the Bulgarian town of Breznik.