5 Simple Ways to Inspire Children to Be Charitable this Christmas
![Salvation Army worker holds red kettle as father encourages child to insert coins](https://salvationarmy.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/2018-11-30_xmas-kettle.jpg)
Everyone can pass on a message of love, generosity and charity, including children.
As adults, we can influence the children in our lives and instill a charitable mindset so they can experience the joy of giving. In a recent study, researchers found that children whose parents or caregivers talk to them about charitable giving are more likely than others to donate, especially if the parents themselves become involved.
Here are five ways to help your children experience the joy of giving to others this Christmas
- Help them choose a toy and take it to your local toy drive. Share how excited the recipient, who is less fortunate than them, will be when they open it.
- Encourage them to give some money at a Salvation Army Christmas kettle. Share that the money goes directly to support those in need in the local community. Then you do the same. If you are unable to go to a kettle that has been set up in your community, you can donate online at fillthekettle.com/donate.
- Volunteer for a few hours with your child at a local Salvation Army Christmas food hamper drive. By packing a food hamper they will better understand what it means to give hope at Christmas and help struggling people.
- Explain that 1 in 7 Canadians live in poverty and that Christmastime can be especially difficult. Have your child choose some non-perishable items at the grocery store and deliver them to a local food bank.
- Agree to match every dollar your child gives to charity and deliver it in person so they can see and hear about the impact of their generosity.
Philanthropy is about teaching empathy and justice. Children will not only be proud of their giving and volunteering, they will learn about what life might be like under different circumstances and feel grateful for what they have.
Instilling generosity and kindness at a young age helps to shape and nurture a child. And, as they get older, they are more likely to continue with the desire to help others in their local communities, the nation and the world.