The Reason for the Holiday Season

The holiday season. Supposedly, it is a time to celebrate, to be with one’s family, to recognize and observe tradition, and to make wonderful memories. But nowadays, we are bombarded every day during this time with a Santa everywhere you turn, decorations throughout the malls and stores, and holiday shopping commercials on every channel. As parents, families, and teachers, it is our job to teach children that this time is about kindness, giving, and compassion, rather than greediness and envy.  

  

By setting an example of generosity, altruism, and openness, we can show our kids that giving is better than receiving. There are simple ways to make your actions speak louder than words:

• “Adopt” a child. There are several charities during the holiday season that you can find out about online, through your church, or through your child’s school. Take your child to the store to help pick out gifts to give away.  Holiday Charities
• Serve a meal. Take your child to a local soup kitchen to help serve people a hot meal for Christmas. Volunteering is free!
• Sweet treats. Bake a batch of cookies with your kids for someone in your neighborhood. Cookies are a sure way to bring in some holiday cheer!
• Random act of kindness. Tell your kids that you are going to play a game called "random acts of kindness." Tell them they should do one (or more) nice things for their sibling(s) every day starting December 1st. You never know, it may catch on and continue after Christmas!
• Learn about a other cultures and traditions. There are tons of children's books that teach kids about Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanza. Show them that, even though people celebrate different things, everyone loves to spend time with family and celebrate together.

Even though preschoolers and toddlers are young, they can understand a lot more than you might think. They learn by observation and mimicking our behavior. If we show them how to care for people other than ourselves, we can teach them the true meaning of the holiday season. 

Gifts are so much fun to give and receive, but make sure that your kids know that giving and sharing are the most important parts of this festive season.