Did you know that today was Giving Tuesday? Truth be known, I just learned about it on the car ride to work this morning, listening to news on the radio. It would make sense to help remedy the behavior that can often ensue on Black Friday and the “deal foraging” we have come to expect on Cyber Monday, by inserting a national movement of “Giving” into the calendar.
It made me stop and think, how can I model “Giving and Gratitude” to my son this Holiday Season? What activities could we do that don’t require a large financial commitment but the reward would be just as significant? A few ideas crossed my mind, which I will share, but my go-to resource is always the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) and their “HealthyChildren.org” website to see what the experts have to say. Of course, they had a wonderful article written last year by Dr. Kathleen Berchelmann with great suggestions, which I have included the link to at the end of this blog.
I hope that you might find a few ideas that will help you share the love and kindness that truly make this time of year special. A touch of humility is always a lesson that sticks, at least that has been my experience. Help your family understand firsthand the truth behind the saying “It is always better to give than it is to receive.”
· Pick an “Angel” off of the tree for organizations like the Salvation Army and have your child(ren) help you pick the item(s) requested
· Sign up your family to sing Carols for local senior centers or public safety offices through a social service organization or place of worship.
· Help your child(ren) make handmade cards and/or cookies for neighbors and deliver them personally.
· Make a small package for a child in an impoverished country through the Operation Christmas Child, many places of worship participate to find out more.
· If able, look through your pantry with your child(ren) and pick out a few non-perishable items to donate to your local food pantry
· Sign up your family to serve at your local food kitchen.
Here is the link to the article found on HealthyChildren.org that outlines some great tips to teach our children gratitude.
Wishes for Health and Happiness,
Your family at Alliance Pediatrics
