These words of a 5-year old to his mom remind us about the reason for the season, “Because Christmas isn’t just about getting toys, right Mom? It’s about doing good deeds and helping people.” This is a special time of year for all of us, and these early years of children’s development are special for learning that will last a lifetime. While my blog focuses on supporting kids for kindergarten readiness, here’s another reminder: Educating the mind, without educating the heart is no education at all. (Aristotle) Right now, is an opportunity for supporting learning for the heart.
Young children can be included in helping, good deeds, and sharing. This wonderful article on The Imagination Tree about Kindness Elves has some great ones, plus here are some others:
- buying a toy for a community toydrive or Santa’s Anonymous
- baking cookies to share with another family
- donating toys to a thrift store or hospital
- making a gift for letter carrier, or other service person
- getting some food for the foodbank
- sharing money with a charitable group
- dropping off coats at a community shelter
These are just a few ideas for young children to participate in the giving aspect of Christmas. Kids can make or do things that bring a smile to others such as a handmade gift or tree decoration for seniors or family members or coloring paper placemats to go to a seniors’ home or meals on wheels program. Some preschool or kindergarten programs may be able to sing for seniors who always love hearing those wonderful little voices. This is not always appropriate for younger toddlers who may feel insecure around unfamiliar faces, but it certainly lights up the faces of the listeners.
Last year, on a Learn and Play with Mrs. A radio show, Virgina Bruker, spoke about her book Gifts from the Heart. In her words, “Children love to give and…enjoy sharing.” Do you have some other ideas for giving with kids?