How do you plan to teach your children the value of giving to others less fortunate?

[Shelley Lawrence]

Hi Moms and Dads,

I've just discussed how we are teaching Belle the value of giving this Christmas on this post...

http://sixtysecondparent.com/profiles/blogs/give-up-a-gift-for-africa 

How do you teach this important message to your children?

I'd love to know your thoughts and ideas...

Shell

[Sixty Second Parent]

We have always had money box where as a family we contribute each week - at the end of the year we give the money to a charity - seeing the money going in and helping to hand it over has been something my daughter now sees as normal :)

[J Pineiro]

I have always taught my kids (15,8,6) to give away the toys they dont want to Goodwill.

[Darla - The Preschool Toolbox]

Shelly - great topic!  Each Thanksgiving/Christmas our kids help us do "random kindnesses."  We pass out letters to people in the grocery store with a little money to help purchase groceries.  The letter includes ways that they might "pass it on."  An example of this year's letter:

Our large family is blessed with health and happiness.  We wish to do a small part to help someone else during the Holidays.  All we ask it that you pass on a kindness to someone else during the Christmas Season.

YOUR kindness does not have to be monetary…some suggestions might include:

~helping a family member, neighbor, or friend in some unexpected way

~writing a note to a former teacher and telling them they made a difference in your own life

~raking leaves, opening a door, or helping an elderly person in some way

~delivering a small note of gratitude to someone at work, at the hospital, at the fire station, or any other place that performs a needed community service

~simply praying for safe keeping for those who serve in our military

~spreading JOY through your own disposition, outlook, and smiles to those you encounter daily

May you and yours have a blessed Thanksgiving and Christmas Season.

[Christy Garrett]

Children learn by watching what you do.  Show them how to give to those who are less fortunate.  

[Shelley Lawrence]

These are all great suggestions - Many thanks for sharing :)