Valuable Lessons: Tis The Season To Teach About Caring and Sharing

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

With the holiday season set to kick off and spring upon us, it’s likely the children in our lives have shifted their focus from school to their favourite stores. And, they are probably dreaming about all those wonderful gifts they are going to get.

Yet, according to experts, the holiday season is really more about giving than receiving. And, they add it’s a concept that most kids just don’t get. In fact, most (younger) kids believe that everything belongs to them.

They suggest teaching kids about sharing and caring, and using the anticipation of the holiday season to do it. And, with the holidays as an “excuse” you can even make it exciting and fun.

They suggest teaching kids about sharing, caring and giving by planning family events that highlight all these things.

Consider asking kids to collect toys and clothes they no longer use and/or that no longer fit, but are still in good to excellent condition. Ask them to help wash and fold, and perhaps even wrap them. Then schedule a time to pay a family visit to a local charity for children and have the kids drop them off or hand them out.

You may also want to consider getting involved with already established charities such as Toys for Tots, have your child or children pick out a toy or toys for someone else, and explain to them that not all children have families or the money to celebrate the way you do. In fact, let them know that there will be many children who won’t have decorations, gifts, clothes or even food. You may even want to encourage them again to get creative with wrapping and join you when you drop it off. After all, kids learn by example, so make sure you are giving the right message.

If finances are also an issue for your (especially during this season), consider exemplifying sharing and caring by giving of your time. Just call around to local churches, charities, places of worship, etc. and find out which areas they need help in, even if it’s only for an hour a week. A great way to help and get kids involved is by visiting and decorating children’s hospitals in cheery, bright colours and holiday designs.

Experts recommend seeking out well know charities and/or organizations or asking your local children’s hospital for recommendations.

Finally they recommend teaching kids these concepts of caring at an early age. In fact, they suggest that the sooner you get started, the better, especially when it comes to instilling in your child valuable lessons in values.

Long Island Family Life & Parenting Articles > Valuable Lessons: Tis The Season To Teach About Caring and Sharing