5 Activities To Do With Your Child That Promote Giving Back

Written By: Shamika Sanders

It is such a gift to be able to give. Whether it’s simply rounding up to the next dollar on a purchase or tossing extra coins in the red kettle for the Salvation Army, the holidays are a reminder to not only donate to the less fortunate, but to also be grateful for your blessings.

And teaching your children these fundamental lessons from an early age will help implant the seed of giving in their hearts.

According to recent data, around 64% of total charitable donations in the US come from individuals, which means your donations, big or small, makes a major difference. With Chrismas upon us, it’s the opportune time to teach your children about giving back. Keep scrolling for some tips on how you can get them in the spirit to give.

Donate Old Toys

Getting your child to part ways with one of their toys it a task in itself, but making it a teaching moment can help pique their interest. An easy way to help your kids be enthusiastic about donating some of their toys is to reward them, make it a tradition and do it around major moments like Christmas or their birthday when they’ll most-likely be receiving new gadgets to play with. The Charitable organization SecondChoiceToys  is on a mission to “rescue and recycle gently loved plastic toys for children in need.” Use their interactive map to find a  local donation location where you can drop off lightly used plastic toys and save the environment at the same time.

Package Goodies Bags To Send School

In 2022, 7.3 million kids were cited as food insecure. Going directly to your child’s schools is a great way to give back. Create a bonding moment with your kid while assembling goodie bags that he or she can distribute to their classmates. Consult with your child’s teacher first, of course, and collaborate with them to have your child help give out the treats. Hungry doesn’t all look the same and there can be a kid who benefits from having an extra snack. It also encourages your child compassion and interaction with their peers. 

Participate In A Coat Drive 

Schools often hold coat and food drives during the holidays to make change on the ground and in the every day lives of local families. Donate as a family, lightly used coats, clothing and other warm goods that will go a long way to families in need. 

Teach Gratitude 

Laying the groundwork for giving can be as simple as showing appreciation According to deliverthedream.org, “Show appreciation for everyday things like food, home, car, toys or good health. Explain that not all people in the world have these things and point out how fortunate your family is.” Lead by example when it comes to practicing kindness and emphathy.”

Create A Giving Jar

Make a holiday giving jar a family tradition for your children. Leave a jar your kids have easy access to and encourage them to contribute portions of “their pocket money or allowance to the jar regularly. At the end of each month or a specified period, we let them be part of the decision-making process of choosing a charity or cause to support with the collected funds. This practice empowers them to actively participate in making a positive difference in our community.” (DonorsTrust).

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!