“Volunteers are paid in six figures... S-M-I-L-E-S.” ~Gayla LeMaire
What does it mean to “give back” to the community, and why is it important that our children participate? At what age should we begin to instill this value in our kids? And how do we, as parents, foster volunteerism?
“Giving back,” or performing acts of service in the community, will…
*Build your children’s confidence, self-esteem and self-worth.
*Teach your children responsibility.
*Make your children feel powerful and believe that they can change the world!
*Help your children appreciate their world and all that they have.
*Improve bonds between you and your children.
We, as parents, should start having our children “give back” to the community at a very early age. As young as 2 or 3, children can perform simple acts of community service, drop a nickel into a donation bucket or donate an old toy to a child who is less fortunate. It helps to make “giving back” a regular part of life—a tradition on a weekly, monthly or yearly basis.
Working with your child’s interests and abilities is also essential. As parents, we should not overdo it or underdo it. If it seems random and half-hearted, it will be meaningless. However, if it is forced, it will also be meaningless. Find something your child is good at or enjoys and work within those parameters. If your son loves to read, help him organize a book drive. If your daughter bonds with animals, have her volunteer at the local animal shelter. Ask for THEIR input and have them brainstorm ideas with you. Most importantly, TALK about the experience, before and after. Beforehand, help them know what to expect. If they are visiting the elderly, prepare them for the types of conditions they may see. Afterward, ask them how they felt as they were helping others.
Listed below are some ideas for helping your children “give back” to the Kansas City community. Also listed are some websites with additional resources and local organizations your children can join.
Birthday/holiday season ideas:
Play “One Comes In, One Goes Out.” Basically, for each new gift your child receives, he/she puts one in a bag to donate.
Fill a bag for Santa. The idea is to fill a bag with toys your children are ready to part with and leave the bag near the Christmas tree. Santa will then pick it up on Christmas Eve and bring it to children who are less fortunate.
Visit the elderly or infirm at hospitals or senior citizen centers. Have your kids make Christmas tree ornaments or homemade gifts and deliver them in person. You also can Christmas carol through the halls! In February, kids can deliver valentines, or in October, they can trick-or-treat at hospitals or assisted living centers. (These events need to be set up ahead of time, so you would need to contact administrators to organize a visit.)
Year-round ideas:
Teach your children to regularly give a portion of their allowance or birthday money to a church or charity. One idea is to have three cups for dividing their money: one cup for spending, one cup for saving and one cup for giving.
Collect and donate teddy bears to your local police and/or fire station. When police officers or firefighters have to comfort children in times of distress, especially if the children are apart from their parents, the officers often like to have teddy bears in their cars to help calm the children.
While back-to-school shopping, fill a backpack with school supplies for a child in need. Contact your local elementary school and ask where donations are most needed.
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” ~Oscar Wilde
Karen Johnson is a former high school English teacher turned stay-at-home mom. She lives in Olathe with her three children, ages 5, 3 and 1. Follow her adventures at 21stCenturySAHM.blogspot.com