Thanks = Giving
“Money is not the only commodity that is fun to give. We can give time, we can give our expertise, we can give our love, or simply give a smile. What does that cost? The point is, none of us can ever run out of something worthwhile to give.”
— Steve Goodier
Gifts are exciting—who doesn’t love a wrapped present?
But there’s something even more beautiful about seeing your child’s eyes light up, not because of what they’re getting, but because of what they’re giving. In a world that can sometimes feel so focused on “getting,” teaching our kids the joy of giving (not as a duty or expectation) is like planting seeds for kindness, compassion, and empathy that will grow throughout their lives.
When kids start to experience the joy of giving, they’re learning more than just generosity, they’re also learning about connection, empathy, and the difference they can make in someone else’s life. This lesson is one that kids feel right away because giving is such a joyful experience.
Every time my daughter and I make a card for a friend or pick out a special gift for a family member, I can see that spark of joy. The pride and happiness she feels after giving something meaningful is so pure and heartwarming—and it leaves an impression.
For me, these moments remind us that giving is just as fulfilling as receiving (sometimes even more!). By teaching our kids to give, we’re helping them understand that they have the power to make someone’s day, and that’s a pretty wonderful thing for a child to realize. They also begin to realise that when we give we have more (fulfilment), not less!
Q-(Quick)Tips to Practice Giving with Kids
1. Start Small and Simple
One thing I’ve learned is that teaching kids to give doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Sometimes, the simplest acts are the most meaningful. It could be as easy as surprising a friend, or writing a note of appreciation, or even just setting aside a toy they no longer use to donate. I love how these small actions show my child that giving is something we can do at any moment—no need for a special occasion.
It’s always a sweet moment when my child sees the happiness on someone’s face because of a small act of kindness.
Those moments make the idea of giving feel relatable and achievable. Kids quickly learn that they don’t need to be adults to make a difference in someone else’s day.
2. Turn it into a Family Tradition
Creating a giving tradition can be an incredible bonding experience, especially if it’s new for your family. Each year, gather everyone to brainstorm for ways to give back to your community or help someone in need.
These little traditions could become something you all will look forward to. It’s a time for us to think about what we have to offer as a family and how we can put it to good use.
And for my child, I think it’s been a reminder that giving isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s a way of life.
3. Let Them Choose How to Give
When kids feel involved, giving becomes more than just something Mom or Dad tells them to do. I’ve found that giving my child a say in how they want to give back makes the experience so much more meaningful for her. Sometimes, it’s a bit surprising what they come up with!
One time, my child wanted to make homemade cards for our local firefighters. Another time, she suggested collecting canned goods from family members to donate to the food bank. Currently my daughter is making holiday cards for soldiers serving in the military who won’t be home for the holidays with their families.
Letting kids choose their own ways to give not only makes it more enjoyable for them, but it also shows them that generosity can be a personal expression—something that comes from the heart.
4. Celebrate the Joy it Brings
I’ll admit, sometimes I worry that my child won’t fully appreciate the impact of giving when they’re young. But what I’ve learned is that even if they don’t completely understand, they do feel it. And that’s enough. When we come back from delivering those baked goods or donating those toys, I take a moment to ask my child how she feels about it.
It’s often met with a proud smile or a happy nod. By reflecting on that warm feeling, I hope to help her understand that the joy of giving is a gift in itself. And, just maybe, she’ll grow up knowing that happiness isn’t just found in getting—it’s in sharing too.
5. Make Giving Part of Everyday Life
One of the best ways to teach kids the joy of giving is to make it a regular part of life. Whether it’s sharing their lunch with a friend or helping a sibling with homework, giving can happen in so many forms. I try to show my child that generosity doesn’t always require money or special occasions. It can be as simple as lending a helping hand, sharing a kind word, or offering a smile to someone who seems down.
Over time, I hope my child will see that the most meaningful gifts aren’t always wrapped in paper and bows. Sometimes, they’re found in the kindness and love we show to others in everyday life.
What I love most about teaching my child the joy of giving is how much it brings us closer. Every time we do something kind together, there’s this warm, connected feeling between us, and I see her heart growing a little bigger. They become more aware, more grateful, and more considerate.
And these are lessons that stick—they’re not just holiday traditions, but little habits we carry with us into everyday life.
When our kids grow up understanding that they can make a difference, they’re more likely to approach life with empathy and generosity. They’ll understand that giving is about making someone else’s life a little better, and they’ll see that they have the power to do that.
And isn’t that what we want for our kids?
P.S. I’ve also created a freebie with fun activities that you can do with your kids to practice gratitude as a lifestyle. Get your freebie here….
