As the season for gift-giving approaches, a perfect opportunity arises to teach children the spirit of giving and the joy it brings. Children are in the natural position of receiving gifts but may not have much experience in gift-giving.
A good way to start is by having your child do a “toy audit” and letting them pick toys they no longer use or have outgrown. This can give the toys a new life, as well as allow them to gift to another child. Mention that this also gives your child space for new things, and creates a cycle of giving.
Include your children in preparing the toys by cleaning or repairing, and include all the necessary pieces, and have them be involved in dropping them off at a collection point in person. Take pictures and share with family and friends how your child is becoming a generous person. There are many donation centers and community groups that collect toys for the holidays. Fun4gatorkids.com has a list of places that accept donations for the holidays. Some that are listed include; Alachua and Tri-County US Marine Corps Toys for Tots, Partnership for Strong Families Wish Upon a Star, and Kimberly’s Christmas Festival and Toy Drive which includes an experience for children with bounce houses and vendors.
A blog from Mostt, at https://mostt.com, on letting go, describes a tradition of inviting your child to say “thank you” out loud for the toy as they put it in the collection bag. This can also be done with clothing and shoes for less fortunate children.
Daily Mom Magazine, https://dailymom.com, is another great resource that provides tips on holiday gifting.
Karacarreo.com https://karacarreo.com, >Blog>Family lifestyle, describes a 4-step toy and game buyout hosted by parents every year.
The spirit of giving is a powerful experience that brings joy and teaches empathy, as well as provides your family with precious quality time.
Christina Miller, Owner/Head of School for Millhopper Montessori School. Serving Gainesville families since 1977. Call to schedule a tour: (352) 375-6733