How to Teach Your Children About Giving

The holiday season is a popular time to give toys, clothing or food to worthy recipients. It's also a great way to provide an example to your children. If you have younger children, they may have only just learned about sharing, but will be eager to give gifts. If you have older children, they are likely to be more aware of the needs that some families face. Either way, take this great opportunity to teach your children about the value of giving.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Talk openly with your children about why a family might need a warm coat or a warm meal. Couch your conversation in simple terms that won't frighten them, but don't shy away from the topic.

2. Be clear that the recipients of your giving are worthy. Sometimes children are given the idea that recipients of charity are failures or simply not up to the task of living successfully in society or that asking for help is in and of itself a failure. Make sure you're clear with your children that everyone needs help now and then.

3. Avoid suggesting that children might not get gifts on a holiday if you have young children. This confuses the idea that Santa gives out toys to all children and can be very distressing to the youngest in your family. Keep the Santa myth alive in your family if you find it a useful parenting tool.

4. Engage the children in purchasing, wrapping (if appropriate) and dropping off of the goodies. If they're old enough, include them in the distribution of the gifts as well. Involving them in as much of the process as is appropriate to their age will ensure that they understand and appreciate the process of giving.

[laegould]

on 8/15/2009 What a great idea! I can't wait till my girls are old enough to do something like this!

[uminalisa]

on 5/25/2009 There are books to teach children how and what to give. Check out Milo and the Green Wagon on Amazon.com