Even though the holidays are over, the memories are still fresh and we hope your holidays were fantastic! For many the end of the holiday season means the beginning of planning for the new year. What a great time to teach kids that they can be more than receivers of gifts; they can be givers of gifts too!

1. Walk the Walk

What your kids see you do is a lot more powerful than what they hear you say. Giving has the most impact on kids when they hear and see a consistent message. Talk about why giving is important to your family and share the ways you choose to give your TIME, TALENT or TREASURE.

2. Make It Fun

Letting kids choose a cause that is important to them is a great way for them to feel a connection to the mission and to have “buy in” for the cause. For example, if your child is passionate about animals spend some TIME volunteering at the local humane society or if your child loves to draw, use this TALENT to create a card for troops stationed overseas.

3. Make It Relatable

It’s important for kids to see the whole picture when it comes to giving. Remember the “why” is often more important than the “what”.  Make sure to talk about why giving is a part of your family’s culture, how giving makes them feel and how their actions are positively impacting others’ lives.

4. Make It a Family Tradition

Bell ringers, food drives and adopt-a-family programs are seasonal reminders to give, but it’s important to remember the need is year-round. The new year is a wonderful opportunity to develop a family culture that values giving that will continue for many years to come.