5 Ways to Teach Children Generosity

The holidays are here! The time of year for family traditions, lights and decorations, yummy cookies and of course gifts. For the kids, getting gifts is probably what they look forward to most, but it’s important to remember that this time of year is also the season for giving and giving back. The holiday season gives parents a great opportunity to teach children the value of generosity.

Here are a few ways you can show your little one that giving is just as rewarding as receiving:

1. Lead by Example

The simplest way children learn is through you, their parents. Children see generosity in action when you: make crafts for local seniors, collect food for hungry families, or shovel the sidewalk for a neighbor. If your child is old enough, be sure to get them involved so they can learn that doing good feels good.

2. Lean on Their Expertise

Not sure what toy to give a child in need? Ask an expert: your own child! When your child makes their holiday wish list have them also request a gift for another child their age who might be less fortunate. The donation will feel more personal knowing that it’s going to another child like them.

3. Let Them Choose a Cause

You can encourage your child to pick a charity to support with a monetary donation. Maybe your little one likes animals or maybe their current obsession is the ocean. Whatever their passion, they can feel excited about doing their part to help others.

4. Make it Fun

Plan time for the family to create something together! Turn on some music, put the supplies on the table, and get the whole family involved in hands-on activities like making chew toys for shelter pets or packing nonperishable foods for hungry families.

5. Do Good Year Round

The decorations come down and festive songs stop playing, but generosity shouldn’t end with the holidays. Once you get the ball rolling and make a habit of giving back, you can instill generosity as a core family value.

This holiday season take a little time to teach your children about putting kindness and generosity into action. A giving spirit is one gift that will never get old.