Every parent wants their kids to have good character, compassion and caring. Whether in the familial environment or even as a member of society. But, good things don’t come that easy… It takes building good habits and perseverance in doing them.
So, how do parents teach their children the value of selflessness, hard work, and generosity?
Well, for one, the parents can set a good example of how one simple act of kindness can mean so much to others. Then, instil those values with what a child could understand. To start, parents could ask their children to do small things to encourage kindness in their little good hearts.
Next, do volunteer works as a family — which fits right into the modern multitasking lifestyle. When done right, a family volunteering activity accomplishes three goals at once:
- The family get to spend quality time together
- Having a positive impact on the community, and
- Teaching valuable lessons about service and selflessness
Not only do they learn compassion and understanding for others, but they have an opportunity to feel needed. With that, it will create a habit of implementing random acts of kindness in the kids’ daily activities, without they are even asked. But, what kind of volunteering activity is best for you and your family?
Start with activities can be done in the home and in your neighbourhood. See what the kids are interested in and let them develop their own unique “calling.” Even small children can become passionate advocates for causes that are close to their hearts.
Here are 5 ideas on what kind of volunteer activities for families.
1. Community Cleanup
Organise a community cleanup day activity as a family along with friends and neighbours. Choose a location (the park, the neighbourhood street, etc.) and schedule a couple of hours of fun and service. Make a game out of it — like creating scavenger hunt to locate things that needs to be fixed, painted or clean up. This can help the kids to be more thankful for their neighbourhood resources. They will be proud of their small part of contribution and will feel a greater sense of stewardship for their neighbourhood.
2. Plant a Tree
Planting trees as a family offers a great opportunity to beautify the community while also teaching the children about science and make a long-term environmental impact. Take a trip as a family to a local greenhouse or garden centre, and allow the kids to choose what type of tree they want. Give each child a responsibility, such as digging the hole, taking the tree out of the pot, etc. Take a picture of the tree after it’s planted, and do so every year to track its growth. The kids will be proud to see the “family tree” become part of the neighbourhood ecosystem.
3. Help the Animal Shelter
Taking care of a pet teaches kids how to care for another creature and to put its needs above their own. For those who aren’t ready to commit to full-time pet ownership, volunteering at the local animal shelter is a great way to teach caring and nurturing of animals. Call a local animal rescue service, and ask what kind of volunteer opportunities they have for kids. Many shelters need volunteers to walk the dogs or simply play with some of the other animals. Some animal rescue services even have a foster home program for animals, just so until the animals are ready to be adopted. But, if you’re not ready to take an animal into your home, you can always donate items to the shelter, like old towels and newspapers for the animals’ bedding, dog and cat food, etc.
4. Collect Money for Charitable Organisations
When a child gives freely of his or her own money or collects money for a charitable campaign, it reinforces values like generosity, compassion and gratitude. Ask your kids what they’re most thankful for — whether it’s their food, home, toys — and explain that not everyone is so lucky. Tell them that even little kids have the power to help, and suggest donations that might interest them. For example, you can donate some of your old toys to a homeless shelter or walk around the block asking neighbors for a canned good to donate to the local food bank.
5. Visit a Retirement Home
The very young and the very old have a special connection. By taking your small children with you to the local nursing home, you will bring joy into the lives of the residents and your family.
Contact a local retirement facilities and ask for ways in which your family can help. There are also plenty of ways for your kids to volunteer to help seniors without going to a nursing home. Chances are you have several elderly neighbors who would appreciate an extra hand around the house. The kids can offer to rake the lawn or help clean out the garage.