Five Ways Kids Can Give Back at Christmas

Wondering how to get your kids invested in the true spirit of the season? There are several easy ways kids can give back at Christmas. Here are a few that have worked for us.

My girls are sensitive compassionate kids. When others are hurt, it hurts them too. My oldest girl, in particular, my creative Type A, is an empathetic soul. Her report card always contains comments about  “a kind, caring girl who always helps others and makes friends with new students. She is first to care for her friends when they are hurt.”

Showing You Care is Always Important

These are the things I hold close to my heart as a parent and value more than grades. My daughter does well at school and both of my kids make me proud daily with all they have overcome and all they bring to each and every day. There are nine million things I love about my daughter, but her heart is her best feature. A better world will be built by our caring kids. I truly believe that.

KinderCanada is an organization I support and am proud to share here on this blog because of their partnership with Children’s Miracle Network. For the last two years Kinder has given back to Children’s Miracle Network, supporting children with life threatening illnesses.

For the second year, KINDER®has partnered with Children’s Miracle Network with the “A Joy To Share”program.  The “A Joy to Share” program is one of the ways KINDER® is helping bring joy to families this holiday season. As families come together this holiday, it is a wonderful opportunity to teach our little ones (and loved ones) about what it means to help others.  

Over the years, my husband and I have worked hard to show our kids compassion at work, to help them build a good moral compass and give them opportunities to help others. These are a few of my thoughts on how children can give back at Christmas.

Five Ways Kids Can Give Back at Christmas

1. Find an Angel Tree.

We have done this ever since the kids were small. Find an Angel Tree in your community and have your children pick out a name, then purchase a gift for the child.

2. Visit a Retirement Home

(or longterm care facility volunteering or visiting.)

When my Mom was in Kensington Village, my kids would visit often. We made friends with staff and residents and my kids would randomly hug seniors. It was a spontaneous gesture that was always appreciated. People sometimes don’t get many visitors when they are living in a retirement home or care facility.

3. Donate.

Donate toys, clothes, books – fill a shoebox for Christmas.

There are several organizations that do this type of activity that’s simple and rewarding for kids. This is one of those organizations: Operation Christmas Child. This is a great way kids can give back at Christmas. 

4. Volunteer Together.

Spend an afternoon volunteering together at the Food Bank.

It’s a task simple enough for kids to do with some instruction. It feels good and can easily become a tradition. Your heart will feel full and you are accomplishing something useful while also encouraging kids to recognize the importance of community. 

5. Card Writing Campaigns.

Visit the Kinder® Facebook page and create a card for the Children’s Miracle Network. For each greeting card that is created, KINDER® will donate $1 to the Children’s Miracle Network. KINDER® hopes to reach a goal of $25,000 this holiday season.

There are many card writing opportunities every year and you can probably find one easily in your community. You might send cards to the local hospital, or to the university to support kids doing their exams away from home for the first time.