CATCH THEM
IN THE ACT DONʼT OVERLOOK
THE LITTLE THINGS
If you notice your child going above and beyond, let
him know you feel proud. I was wondering if I was
nagging my daughter too much about extending
kindness to the new girl in dance class. Then I met her
mother at the fall mixer and she commented that her
daughter always speaks highly of my daughter. Rather
than mostly focusing on correcting negative behavior, I
try to make a point of telling my daughter when she
makes me proud. This was one of those times. Hold doors open for those behind and ahead of you.
Teach kids to reply, “You’re welcome,” when someone
thanks them for anything. Ask them to smile at seniors
and say hello to folks who walk by with well-behaved
pets. When a friend wears something pretty to school,
teach your child how to offer a genuine compliment.
Sincerity is important. Make sure your kids know what
it means and don’t try to use compliments to
snow people.
SHARING CLOSE
TO HOME BE A GOOD TIPPER
Feed the birds around your home all year long. Get
kids involved in taking stray pets to a local no-kill
shelter if they are in need of a new home. Bring frozen
meals or warm muffins to an ailing senior or neighbor
who has just delivered her third baby. Get the kids to
mow someone’s lawn a couple of times, bring in the
mail, and feed the pets for a neighbor on vacation.
Small unselfish acts can boost kids’ self-esteem and
make them feel like more integral members of
the community.
Let kids help you work out 15% for tips on restaurant
meals and then teach them how to tack on a little
extra. The waitress at the restaurant works hard — so
does your local barista, postal delivery person, and
babysitter. Talk to kids about creating a holiday thank
you gift together to express your family’s appreciation
and then add in a small cash
bonus or gift card.
Christina Katz is an author, freelance
journalist, and writing coach. Her favorite
memories are those times someone was
generous towards her during tough
times. She strives to cultivate
compassion in her personal life
and in her work life.
Reach Out And Give by Cheri J Meiners M.Ed.
Under The Lemon Moon by Edith Hope Fine
The Quiltmaker’s Gift by Jeff Brumbeau
The Berenstain Bears, The Joy Of Giving by Mike and Jan Berenstain
The Giving Book, Open The Door To A Lifetime Of Giving by Ellen Sabin
How To Be An Everyday Philanthropist By Nicole Bouchard Boles
The Kid’s Guide To Service Projects By Barbara A. Lewis
One Good Deed A Day, A Journal From Chronicle Books
12 | S T . J O H N S
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