As parents, it's natural for us to want to give our children the things we didn't have. And in today's world, it's often easy to confuse the wants of our children with their actual needs. Often we respond to every "I want" because we can and it makes us feel good, not necessarily because we should. Especially during the holidays, many of us tend to give generously to our children even those of us who typically practice moderation.
There are an infinite numbers of toys, games, and treats in today's world. And no matter how much our children have, they will always want more, and there will always be a friend who has more. How can we change this mindset and raise caring and giving children that know the importance of giving rather than getting? How do we avoid over spoiling our kids during the holidays? Here are some tips on how we can teach our children to moderate their wants, be thankful for what they have, and give to others.
Teach what it means to share
One way you can help your children understand what it means to give is to teach them the importance of sharing. Often, when you think of the word “sharing,” you picture dividing tangible things like splitting a piece of cake with someone or letting friends play with toys.
Even these small examples of sharing can help your children understand, in simple and concrete terms, what it means to be generous.
Model generosity
Think about your attitudes toward charity and what messages you send to your children:
Do they reflect the same kindness and sensitivity to others that you would like your children to exhibit?
Do your children see you helping neighbors, giving to charity, or donating items to needy people?
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.
Teaching Your Child the Spirit of Giving this Holiday Season