Five Tips for Teaching Children the Joy of Giving this Spring2ACTion

April 9 is Spring2ACTion, Alexandria’s Day of Giving (and my favorite day of the year!) where we come together to raise nearly $3 million for organizations serving our most vulnerable citizens. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you how important giving this year is. Critical federal funding that our non-profits and schools rely on is being stalled at best and eliminated at worst. As we see more and more of our neighbors in need, it’s going to be up to the public sector to come to their aid. This is the perfect time to teach children the joy of giving so others may thrive. 

Here are a few tips to start a virtuous cycle of philanthropy this Spring2ACTion:

• Lead by example. This is the most important tip. Children watch and learn from us. They follow our lead and share our values. When you demonstrate your capacity to give they pick up on it and follow suit. You are their best role model, so make them a part of your philanthropic activities.

• Involve them in charitable decision making. Talking to your children about the needs of others and giving them an opportunity to express their preferences shows them that they have a voice and can make an impact at any age.  

• Celebrate giving on special occasions. Special occasions such as birthdays and holidays are a wonderful way to celebrate philanthropy. Donate in your child’s name as a gift. Or encourage them to do that for grandma on her birthday. As part of the celebration volunteer time or take them to buy toys or food for organizations collecting such things.  

• Provide a three-part allowance. Teaching financial literacy can start at any age, but the earlier the better. Charitable giving can be a big part of that learning. When your kids earn their allowance, encourage them to set aside money for spending, saving, and giving. Then, through family discussions, determine how they will donate their giving dollars. This will lead to a life-long tradition of philanthropy.

• Share the impact of charitable giving. Seeing the real world effects of giving is a powerful way to make an impact on anyone. Children benefit when they see the cause and effect. When they know that something they did made a difference. It builds confidence, empathy, and compassion.

This Spring2ACTion over 180 charities are raising money to help Alexandrians in need.  It is the perfect opportunity to talk to your kids, engage them in the process, share what it means to help those in need, and lead by example. Early giving starts today, March 26 so you can start as soon as now!

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