We live in a world where our actions speak for us. Specially as parents we can set an example for our kids. It is a very common known fact that children do what they see. Lets all Help build a foundation of charitable giving for your children and show them that their actions, no matter how small, can make a real difference to others and their respective lives.
Here are some easy ways to teach your child about charity:
1. MAKE THEM REALIZE THAT THEY ALREADY DO IT
Smiling at someone on the street, holding doors open for people who need a hand or visiting a sick relative is still charity because it warms someone’s heart. Most children already do these things, but they will be pleased to learn that they’re helping out. It happens over time that they understand what effect helping others have.For us it might not be a big deal but for someone going through a rough patch in life, it would mean the world.
2. LET THEM CHOOSE THEIR OWN CAUSES
Suggest some causes to your child and let them choose one that matters to them the most. I don’t mean that the not chosen causes are not important. It’s just that this way they’re more likely to want to support a cause that they know about and identify with.
It’s important to be sensitive to their age and introduce causes that match their interests. Children’s hospitals where they can donate old toys or local farms where they can play with the animals and donate money often work well for children beacause it’s relatable to them with kids being their age.
3. MAKE IT A FAMILY THING
Lead by being an example
Let them see you drop money into charity boxes, ask them to help you pick out ready foods to distribute or bring them along when you participate in fundraising events. It gives you an opportunity to discuss why it’s important to give and how rewarding it can be.
Create family traditions
You can give to the same cause every year during the holidays or set up a charity box at home which the whole family can contribute to – then decide together how to use the money. This way children learn the best beacuse as they say charity begins at hoe. And it is a proven fact that children follow what they see the most at home since this is the place where they spend most of their time.
4 .TEACH THEM THE VALUE OF TIME
With limited financial means it can be hard for children to donate money. Use this as a chance to teach them that they have a much more valuable resource than cash – they have time, which can be just as powerful.
Encourage them to help neighbours with small jobs. If they are older, help them to volunteer at hospitals and take part in charitable events at school.
5. CELEBRATE
When your children give, tell them that you’re proud of them. Show them pictures and thank you notes from the places they have helped, so they can see the impact and feel appreciated for their contributions.
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