The Giving Child

Many small children are by nature generous. Unfortunately, this may translate into offering visitors the toys they found in the garden, or wishing to share the joy of mud! On the flip side, possessiveness comes at an early age as well, and jealousy over a favorite toy can turn into selfishness.

Encourage your children to be charitable. Explain to them that not every child has toys and nice clothes, or even good food to eat. Odds are they will be eager to help, and from there you can set in motion a plan to make a difference.

You can foster the spirit of giving in your children by setting an example yourself. Let them see you put together a care package for a family in need, or take them with you to deliver toys and clothes to the less fortunate. The holidays are usually great times to do these activities, but keep in mind that need knows no season!

Food and clothing banks may be in even more need in the summer, when the donations of the 'giving season' are past. Make it part of your summer routine to spend a weekend or two raising donations for your local shelters, and invite your children to contribute personally.

Encourage your child to pick one presents at each birthday celebration to give to the less fortunate. This is a great opportunity for them to show care and experience the good feeling of sharing. As they get older, they may wish to use their birthdays as a way to raise money for a good cause - most people will be more than happy to give a sum rather than a traditional gift if requested.

The gift of time is often more important than anything, and here again is the chance to lead by example. Visit your local hospitals and nursing homes, and spend a little time with the lonely and ignored. Children are often a welcome sight, and the smallest gift of a flower or a homemade card can be greeted with amazement and gratitude!

Volunteering at the local soup kitchen or blood drive is an appropriate activity for older children, and teaches them the importance of each person to the community as a whole. As they grow, they will probably have their own ideas of how to help and share the good things in their lives with others, and such ambitions should be encouraged!

Learning how to give with a joyful heart will benefit not only the recipients, but your child as well. It will foster a compassion for their fellow man, and a desire to help those less fortunate.