Planting the Seeds of Generosity

Over the years, you’ve probably taught your children lessons along the lines of “share and share alike” and “better to give than to receive.” But how do you transition these lessons into more concrete instruction about charitable giving, without risking the youngest members of your family becoming overwhelmed, bored, or even discouraged that they may have to give their meaningful belongings away? And how can you make those lessons effective as children grow older?

Here are a few tips to consider as the season of giving gets into full swing:

–For children of any age, as with any successful learning experience, positive reinforcement is a must in teaching the values of charitable giving. So when your school-age children are raising money for a charity through a school fundraiser, throwing coins into a fountain to support a local children’s hospital, or donating gently-used toys and clothing, make sure you let the child know that these gifts really do make a difference. Walk them through where the money goes, what the organization may spend it on, all the way to how the recipient will likely feel upon receiving. 

–How do you know what charitable causes might inspire your children in your life? Ask! You’re likely to hear things like animals, moms, friends, family, trees, school, reading and writing, having a home, finding missing people, helping to rescue victims of natural disasters, and having clean air and water. Any one of these elements gives you a fantastic opening for the conversation.

–Try casting a wide net around the definition of what it means to be “charitable,” going beyond monetary donations to organizations. Share with your children that actions such as adopting an older dog who needs a home, turning off lights to help the environment, cooking dinner for neighbors in need, helping to pay a family member’s medical bills, and recycling aluminum cans can all make a big difference.

–To inspire teenagers, you might consider tapping into an increasingly popular topic among younger generations, which is the notion of “purpose.” “Finding one’s purpose,” in the context of both personal lives and careers, is also a concept that can unite generations within a single family. The overarching purpose of giving can be framed as making the world a better place or strengthening the community. This translates nicely for youths who are seemingly always asking, ”Why?”

Whatever approach you take, remember that your enthusiasm during the conversation will be contagious as you talk about opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. Reach out to me to learn more about how gratitude plays a key role in raising happy, well-adjusted children.