Gratitude and generosity are kindred virtues. Nurture your children through modeling a grateful and giving spirit. When we are thankful we are much more willing to be generous.
As parents, we know training kids to be generous can be a bit overwhelming. It’s difficult to get kids to even share with their siblings, much less strangers. Use these ten tips to encourage and nurture generosity in your family during the holidays and all year long.
10 Tips for Nurturing Generosity in Kids
- Model a generous heart; avoid selfishness.
- Be thankful and content.
- Discuss the difference between wants and needs.
- Praise your child when helpful, generous behaviors are exhibited.
- Practice empathy, placing oneself in another’s shoes.
- Identify ways to help others.
- Take advantage of the Salvation Army Red Kettles and other opportunities to share during the holidays.
- Be hospitable by inviting others into your home.
- Expect children to be generous, sharing and being kind to one another.
- Encourage your children to express thanks to others by saying thank you and writing thank you notes.
Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV
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