What better way to get into the spirit of the Christmas season than by serving together as a family? It could be something as simple as picking out a toy or present together as a family and donating to actually volunteering at an event that gives back to the community. Giving back to others can help us keep perspective during the holiday season. Here are five simple things you can do as a family this holiday season.
Shop With Your Kids
Whether you adopt a family through Angel Tree or Ronald McDonald House or pick out a toy and give it to Toys for Joy or Toys for Tots, take time to teach your child the importance of thinking of others during this holiday season. We have the kids pick out a new toy from the store or online that they like with the understanding that this is going to be for a friend that might not otherwise get a toy for Christmas. Our kids love Melissa and Doug so they picked out some Magnetivity sets to share with our local Toys for Joy event.
Serve Together at an Event
There are so many great events happening not only in December but throughout the year. Have your family find an organization or event that resonates with them and see how you can get involved. For our family, we love serving at Toys for Joy. As soon as we walked into the gymnasium, our little guy looked for ways to help. He helped set up toys and unpacked boxes, while mommy helped with TV segments.
Give Back to a Classroom or School
There are so many ways schools would welcome your help. This could be something as simple as donating your child’s favorite book to the classroom, or creating a reading nook with items like Zonderkidz book collection and ASWEETS teepee or play tent with pillows, to a beautification project like planting flowers or repainting, or something more extensive like add equipment for the playground. You could even ask the school if there is a special project where they might need more help.
Give a Gift that Gives Back
Whether you are giving a gift or buying something for yourself, consider a company or brand that gives back. There are so many companies that either donate a portion of proceeds to great causes or when you buy one, they gift one. These companies range from clothing like Tea Collection to jewelry, shoes, candles, blankets and other home goods. It’s a win, win!
Give a Meal
There are so many families that could use a little extra help this holiday season. Rather than clean out your cupboards and donate to the food pantry, check and see what they need. They often have a list of items that they need on their website. When you purchase your groceries buy those items. Some grocery stores partner with the food bank and have those items pre-bagged so that you simply purchase a bag at checkout. It can also be helpful to purchase grocery store gift cards that way if you hear of a need from a friend you can give them a gift card.
