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Learning to be givers shapes
children’s values and provides
opportunities to develop kindness.
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Often your children are unaware when you write checks for charity or they do not see you when
you run an errand for an infirm neighbor or cook a double batch of dinner for a struggling family.
Let them know when you perform acts of kindness.
Talk about your feelings when you give
Tell your children how you feel when you make charitable contributions or buy things for those
in need. Does it make you feel good that you can make a difference in other people’s lives? Take
time at dinner or even while driving in the car to discuss what you do to help others and how it
makes you feel.
Do it together
Ask your children to help you when you pack up donations of clothes or household items or when
you help a friend. Spend an afternoon at a food bank or at a community clean-up project.
Often these activities become the highlight of your family’s time together.
Praise the giving impulse
When you see your children being generous, point it out and praise them. Help them put into
words the positive feelings they may have as they help others.
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