The Lasting Benefits of Giving Back

The holiday season is a great time to give back. Whether large or small, generous acts of kindness through volunteering or donating help strengthen your community by supporting those around you. By involving your family in the process, children develop important life skills, such as learning about communication, feeling empathy, and building independence. You will see two major benefits emerge from the time and energy you dedicate to the effort.

A Strong Sense of Community

As children engage in the shared experience of helping others, they can build relationships and learn to appreciate people’s differences. It also allows them to feel good about meeting a common goal to benefit those in need. Giving back benefits your own family too by reinforcing strong relationships that allow them to feel safe and connected as they learn about the world.

Social-Emotional Development

Strong social-emotional skills are just as important as academic skills for young children. Understanding and practicing empathy supports children in developing an appreciation for other people, cultures, and lifestyles. Children will also begin to feel a sense of pride and purpose as they give back to the community and find causes to feel passionate about.

There are many opportunities to get involved that are both beneficial and fun! Explore options in your community to find a great fit. Looking for ways to get started? Try these ideas:

• Deliver Homemade Cards: This is a great way for children to be creative and develop their fine motor skills while bringing joy to someone else. Share hope with your colorful creations to nursing or retirement homes or a local children’s hospital or shelter. Try this unique printmaking technique to inspire one-of-a-kind designs.
• Volunteer at an Animal Shelter: Engaging with animals provides opportunities for children to practice independence and responsibility. Most animal shelters will appreciate the extra hands needed for walks, feedings, or just companionship.
• Donate Clothes, Books, or Toys: Encourage your child to think about others in need. Help them choose gently used clothes, toys, or books to donate. This is a great way to have conversations that lend themselves to understanding empathy and respect for others.
• Help with a Food Giveaway: Many nonprofit organizations, community centers, and churches provide holiday meals to the public. Look into volunteer opportunities to help prepare, hand out, or serve food to those less fortunate.

Despite the busyness of the season, it’s important to slow down and spend time with family doing something that supports your community. We hope this list inspires you to build strong bonds, appreciate others, and create life-long memories together.

Our schools encourage kindness and community engagement year-round, but especially during the holiday season. Partner with your school leaders to see how you can get involved!