How to Teach Children About Tithing

Tithing helps maintain church buildings and activities.

For members of many religions, denominations and creeds, tithing represents an important part of money management and devotion. Tithing signifies faith and trust in your religious or spiritual organization by giving a set portion of your income to a higher cause. Many faiths consider tithing an important spiritual discipline. Teaching children about tithing is part of their education, both spiritually and financially. It's important to explain to children the importance of tithing and how it helps you, your fellow man and your community.

Instructions

1. Give a young child under 5 years old a small amount of money to give in offering at church services or in a tithing envelope. Explain to her that this is her personal gift. This is an early step that instills the practice of giving to your religious organization.

2. Talk to children about retaining a portion of their money to give to the church in the form of tithing. Any time a child receives money, you should have a designated place for him to save a portion for the future and for tithing. As the child grows older and understands the value of money, you can let him decide how much to give.

3. Explain to older children (10 years old and up) that tithing is not only a gift of faith and spiritual love, but it also represents an investment in your neighbors and community. Churches use the money to maintain buildings, pay employees, sponsor activities and help the less fortunate in both the community and the world at large.

4. Encourage older children who have jobs to tithe at least 10 percent of their income to the church. While 10 percent is considered standard, it is by no means universal. Depending on your financial situation or personal choice, talk to children about how much they should give.

References

• Church and Tea: Teaching Children How to Tithe
• Families.com: Primary Time - Teaching Your Children About Tithing