By Terri Liga

The holidays can be a festive and magical time of year filled with tasteful treats, holiday decorations, shopping, baking, planning, attending special events, and welcoming family and guests. It’s also a time to share faith, traditions, and good cheer. Regardless of how you celebrate the winter holidays, its true meaning can get lost among the hustle and bustle and sparkling lights.

Indeed, the heart of the holidays can’t be found in perfectly wrapped gifts. It doesn’t show up on your doorstep from an Amazon truck driver. Rather, it is something more meaningful that you can share with others. And, best of all, it’s free, without annual renewal or membership fees. The heart of the holidays is found in the spirit of generosity, kindness, thoughtfulness, and empathy for others.

As a former elementary school educator, I always found it heartwarming to watch students help one another. In observing a child’s natural inclination to please, I have come to realize that we, as the adults in their lives, can help reinforce their natural goodness. After all, the greatest gift we can give others is our genuine concern and our time. Consider some of these impactful ways to share the true spirit of the holidays with your children.

Give Your Time and Service. Children can help you volunteer at a local shelter, food bank, library, or participate in a community clean up, or donation drive. In addition to developing a sense of social responsibility, volunteering teaches children the joy of sharing their time with others.

Share Moments of Gratitude. Encourage kids to share something they are grateful for each day of the holiday season, and to find ways to express their gratitude to the people around them, whether through a conversation at dinner, a handwritten note, or perhaps keeping a daily “grateful” diary.

Spreading Kindness Within the Community. Create “holiday kindness challenges” where kids are encouraged to complete acts of generosity, such as donating toys, giving compliments, or baking treats for local workers.

Children learn by example. When they are provided with consistent opportunities to practice generosity, they are more inclined to become kind, compassionate, and nurturing adults.

Terri Liga is a former elementary school teacher, and the author of Santa’s Simon, a children’s book that focuses on hope, courage, and the transformational power of kindness. Terri resides in the Village of Hamburg with her husband Pete and their mini-golden doodle Sushi. Receive 10% off any purchase on Terri’s website at https://terrililgabooks.com with the code JOYFULGIVING. She is also offering free standard shipping through December 31, 2024.