What To Teach Your Kids About Giving
Children learn what they live and empathy and generosity of spirit are muscles which parents can help children flex by teaching them about charitable giving. Getting kids to identify and impact upon causes they believe in is empowering, and also helps make the world a better place. It's never too early to start grooming the next generation of compassionate givers. Here are some basics that can help you get started this holiday season.
Think About What Matters Most
Have your child identify issues of importance to them and figure out together how to have the most impact. You may live near an animal shelter and helping homeless dogs and cats has captured your child's heart. Possibly, a recent natural disaster or upsetting news story has captured their attention and they want to do what they can to help other children in need. The more passionate your child feels about the cause or causes you choose to support, the more enthusiasm they will have for making a difference.
You Don't Have To Be a Rockefeller To Do Good
Statistically, working and middle class families donate higher percentages of their annual income to charity than those with million dollar bank accounts. Let your child learn that the amount given is not the most important thing and that non-profit organizations are grateful for any level of support that is comfortable for the giver to donate.
Do the Math
If your child gets an allowance, work with them on saving a certain percentage all year long to donate to the charity of their choice. No matter how much you decide to give, sleuth out the charity first to determine its transparency and efficiency. Even if you are writing a $5 check on behalf of your child, you want it to go to an organization that is having an impact.
Give Of Your Time As Well As Your Money
Giving comes from the heart, and can take the form of volunteerism as well as cash. Teaching children that their time is a valuable commodity is an important lesson. Children can get involved in a variety of ways, from reading to an elderly neighbor to working in a community garden or volunteering at your house of worship. Your child can also participate in a fund raising event, such as a cookie sale or walk-a-thon.
Teach Your Child to Become a Savvy Giver
Work with your child on establishing giving guidelines that include safety measures. Make sure they know never to give out a credit card number to someone who calls on the phone, and teach them about social media and email scams that might falsely pull at their heartstrings, and your wallet.
