It’s the most wonderful time of the year! While we get cozy in our fuzzy socks and our marshmallows melt in our ceramic mugs of hot coco, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your year and find ways you and your family can pay it forward and put some goodness into the world. Every small action can make a huge difference in someone’s life, so let’s start the season strong by spreading joy and giving back to the community. If you’re looking for a fun and rewarding way to do this, consider doing one of the following activities with your kids.
Toys for Tots
A great way to pay it forward is with Toys for Tots. Go to your local participating store (which can be found using the link below) and let your child select a toy to donate to a kid in need. Share that it can be any kind of toy that they think someone might enjoy – maybe it’s their favorite Barbie or a Lego set. By personalizing the experience, we can help teach our children ways to make someone else’s holiday brighter.
If you own or work for a business that has a lot of foot traffic, consider hosting a donation bin for Toys for Tots! You and your kids can witness how community comes together to help one another.
Find your local chapter here: https://www.toysfortots.org/find-your-local-chapter/
The Salvation Army – Angel Tree Program
Another exciting way to give back is with the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Find a participating Walmart near you (which can be found through the links below), and there, you can find an Angel: one of over one million children who would otherwise not get any gifts this holiday season. After selecting the Angel you and your kids want to sponsor, go through the Angel’s wish list and make them a very special gift box.
If you prefer an online option, Walmart has also made it possible to do this virtually! Put on your coziest pjs and you and the children can make a gift box from the comfort of your couch.
To find more information, click here:
https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/brighten-the-holidays/ https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/walmart-angel-tree/
Donate to Food Banks
A third option is to go to your grocery store and get a few non-perishable foods to donate to your local food bank. This is also a great way entertain your little ones while you shop!
While making your selections, consider buying healthy pantry staples. Here are just a few examples of what you can donate:
- Honey
- Brown rice
- Nut butters
- Apple sauce
- Canned beans
- Broths and stock
- Low-sodium soups
- Unsweetened dried/canned fruits
- Low-sodium/unsalted canned vegetables
Most food banks also accept monetary donations as well as food. Every little bit help!
Volunteer in your local area
If you’re looking for ways to help spread some love to your community with your time, try volunteering! Here are some examples of ways you and your kids can get involved:
Postal Service – Operation Santa
Respond to letters to Santa from children around the world! Psst- This one is GREAT for teenagers!
Soup Kitchens
Help with cooking, packing, and/or giving out food at your local soup kitchen or food bank.
Holiday cards for your local hospital
Show off your artistic skills!
Animal Shelters
Many shelters need someone to take their animals on walks while they clean the cages. Psst- This one is GREAT for animal lovers and children on the shyer side.
Sing carols at your local nursing home
Connect with those who may be feeling lonely during this time of year.
Book Fairies
Host a book drive! Tell your family and friends to drop off copies of their favorite stories and donate them to your local library or school.
Nature clean up
Grab some gloves and trash bags and take a walk through nature while helping the environment out. Psst- This one is GREAT for kids with a lot of energy and those who love hands-on activities.
Final Tips for Giving Back
Be sure to look up other community building activities within your area. There is always more good that can be put into the world!
This season is the perfect time to teach your kiddos how to give back to better your local community, and doing activities, like the ones listed above, are great ways to get involved and spread some cheer. If you are looking for someone to help bring a little extra creativity to your child’s life, reach out to the Nanny Authority today! Check out our website at www.nannyauthority.com or email us at info@nannyauthority.com.
Happy holidays!