The Magic of Giving: How to Teach Kids About Generosity During Christmas
Christmas is a wonderful time for joy, celebration, and of course, presents. But it’s also the perfect opportunity to help children understand the magic of giving. By focusing on the joy of giving rather than just receiving, you can help your child develop empathy, kindness, and a sense of community. Here are some simple ways to nurture generosity in your family this festive season.
Get Involved with Charity Donations
One of the easiest ways to introduce giving is through charity donations. Encourage your children to choose toys, clothes, or books they no longer use and donate them to a local charity or children’s hospital. Let them select what to give so they feel actively involved. Explain that their items could make another child’s Christmas really special, it’s amazing how empowering it feels to know they’re making a difference.
Make Homemade Gifts
Homemade gifts are full of love and creativity. Encourage children to make hand-painted ornaments, personalised cards, or baked treats for family, friends, or neighbours. These gifts show that thought and effort matter just as much as the item itself, helping kids appreciate the true meaning of giving.
Create a Giving Advent Calendar
Swap the chocolate advent calendar for a "Giving Calendar." Each day involves a small act of kindness, like baking biscuits for a neighbour, helping set the table, or writing a thank-you note to a teacher. These little acts encourage children to think of others daily and make the festive season feel extra special.
Volunteer Together
If possible, volunteer as a family at a local food bank, shelter, or charity event. Even young children can help with simple tasks like sorting donations or handing out meals. Volunteering together not only teaches children that giving time is just as valuable as giving gifts, but it also creates lasting family memories.
Share the Story Behind Christmas Giving
Talk to your children about the meaning of Christmas and the traditions of giving. Read books or watch films that highlight generosity and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Sharing these stories helps children understand that giving is about more than presents, it’s about spreading joy, love, and care.
By involving children in the spirit of giving, you’ll help them see that the holiday season is about more than just receiving. Generosity creates connection, kindness, and lasting memories, lessons that stay with them long after the Festive Season is over.
About Anisa
Anisa Lewis is an accredited Positive Parenting Coach, mother, and ex-deputy head teacher with over 25 years of experience supporting children and families. She specialises in empowering parents and children to navigate stress, anxiety, and everyday challenges through direct coaching, group sessions, and corporate programmes.
Passionate about breaking multi-generational patterns, Anisa helps families discover that parenting does not have to be hard and that creating positive change is possible together.
To book a Free Chat with Anisa, click [HERE].
