Creative Child July 2016 | Page 13

Go to a soup kitchen to feed the homeless if your child already enjoys cooking; or start an art supplies or book collection drive to give supplies to those in need. If science is your child’s forte, find a nearby community garden (or start one in your backyard!) where you can learn about the earth & biology. Then donate your crop to someone in need. If your child is an exceptional reader or a budding piano prodigy, find a buddy or tutor program at your community center or church where they can help kids who are struggling with those same subjects. The goal is to integrate giving into something your child already enjoys, so they can feel the joy of sharing with others. Every responsibility involves boring or tedious elements, but overall, giving should not feel like a chore! Giving and saving are not mutually exclusive. Helping others isn’t about completely depleting your own resources. As parents know, you have to take care of yourself first to ensure that you have the resources—be it time, money, or physical energy—to help others. Finding the right balance can be a challenge, but if you share your joy with others, it will only deepen your well within yourself. 12