The holiday season is a magical time for children, filled with anticipation and the joy of receiving. But amidst the twinkling lights and festive cheer, it’s important to instil in children the joy of giving. Below we will embark on a jolly journey to discover creative and heart-warming ways to teach children the art of giving, fostering empathy, gratitude and a lifelong sense of generosity.
Crafty Kindness
Transform your home into a holiday crafting wonderland. Provide an array of crafting supplies such as paper, glue, glitter and ribbons. Encourage your children to create handmade cards, ornaments or small presents for friends and family. These personalised gifts not only warm the heart but also teach the value of thoughtful giving.
Santa’s special mission: The 12 days of Kindness Challenge
Enlist your children as Santa’s special agents on a mission! Over 12 days assign daily tasks of kindness such as leaving a note for a friend or helping with household chores. Keep a ‘kindness calendar’ to track their progress. By Christmas, they’ll spread joy and learn the power of small thoughtful gestures.
Adopt a stuffed friend
Organise or participate in a stuffed animal drive where children can donate gently loved stuffed animals to less fortunate children. Discuss the importance of sharing and empathy, emphasising how their donations will bring comfort and joy to new friends.
Sing and Share
Host a holiday sing along! Practise festive songs with children and put on a performance for friends and family. Encourage guests to bring non-perishable food items, toys or clothing for donation to a local shelter. This way, children can experience the joy of giving through their musical talents.
Participate in YA Toy Drive
Young Academics is proud to partner alongside the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network to help support thousands of young children who will be spending their Christmas in hospital. Your support can make a significant difference in brightening a child’s holiday season. Whether it’s a cuddly stuffed animal, a creative art set, or an engaging board game, every gift is sure to bring a smile to a young face. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Select a Toy: Choose a new, unwrapped toy suitable for children of various age groups. You can opt for toys for infants, toddlers, school aged children and adolescents. Refer to guidelines for specifics.
- Donate your Toy: drop off your new toy at your Young Academics centre
- Spread the word: Encourage friends, family and colleagues to join in this heart-warming initiative. Together, we can make a greater impact.
With the above engaging activities, you’ll transform your home into a hub of holiday giving. Together, let’s show children the magic of Christmas is not just in what we receive, but in the joy we bring to others. Through these playful acts of kindness, we will nurture a generation of thoughtful, giving individuals spreading warmth and love this holiday season and beyond.
