Children are naturally sympathetic, and as their guardians, what we need to do is nourish it. We need to teach them how to respect other people’s spaces, choices, and way of life. In this day and age, it has become increasingly important to guide kids towards compassion and love. And one of the best ways to nurture those values is to show them how important it is to help others or be charitable.
Realistic perspective on life
By helping the less fortunate at a young age, they will understand that life is not always easy and comfortable for everyone else. This will teach them to be thankful for what they have, but that they should always make sure to make an effort to help those in need. Kids must also know how to approach the subject of poverty and depression in a respectable way. There is no excuse for bad behavior like patronizing the less fortunate, and that is something they need to learn while they are young.
The value of sharing
They must realize that they are privileged, and it is this same privilege that they must share with other people. Schools have incorporated outreach programs to expose kids to the realities of the world. Even early childhood education hold events where kids are given the chance to share what they have with the underprivileged. As guardians, we can start them with donating some of their toys and clothes to a shelter or donation drives. The lesson can also touch at home, by teaching them to share what they have with their siblings.
Humility and compassion
It is the hope of many of us that by seeing the world outside and by allowing them to help those in need, that they will grow up to be humble and compassionate people. Indeed, today it is easier not to care about our neighbors when their misfortunes do not affect us. But if we wish for society to move forward, we must show our kids that being a person for others.
Tips on Inspiring Kids to Give Back
Start with yourself
Kids mimic their guardians’ actions. So when you start helping other people and allowing them to get involved, they will almost always do the same thing you are doing. Take it a step further and explain what it is your doing and why it is important to do it. You can start by dropping donations off or you can volunteer in your local outreach center.
Ask them for suggestions
Now that they have experienced volunteerism and sharing, you can ask them what it is they want to do to help other people. You can list down options like giving out food packages to the homeless, visiting children in the hospital ward, or even helping clean a community.
Process the experience
Talk to your kids about the experience of helping other people. Process the activities by asking them what they did, how it made them feel, how they think the recipients felt, and what they want to do next.
Helping others may leave a significant effect on them during the day. But make it a lifelong habit by doing it continuously.
Perfect guidelines especially at this time of year.