One of my new favorite books is one that teaches and engages young readers beautifully in the power of compassion and service to others. This is a poignant time of the year, especially when so many children in our communities go without.
While most adults want to bring holiday happiness into a child’s life, how do we instill in them a greater awareness for those around us who may live with less? How do we instill in them that their actions are quite powerful and that they can make big differences in someone else’s life?
Ellen Sabin, the author of “The Giving Book – Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving,” grew up in a family of givers and learned early that helping others would also give her additional self-esteem.
This book is a gift in itself for young readers ages 6 – 11; it inspires and teaches through hands-on interaction. In this easy to use spiral-bound book, a child has the opportunity to record their ideas, dreams and wishes for the world, making them the directors of their own experiences. This book is a gem for those who wish to teach children the power of nurture and compassion through kind acts. The book also shows that the power of actions also raises the self-esteem and sense of worth in the giver.
The selfless act of helping a person, cause, or nature also provides a spiritual boost in their lives. Studies show that children who give and volunteer actually do better in school and have higher self-esteem. Ms. Sabin also offers a printable guide to hosting a Giving Party along with printable Giving Certificates.
To read more, and to order these extraordinary books go to: www.wateringcanpress.com
Other ideas for giving children the experience of giving might include:
- Time together spent choosing a local food bank or children’s shelter and buying, wrapping and delivering goods to them.
- Gathering used books and toys to go to donation centers.
- Visiting loved ones in nursing homes or elderly family members who can’t get out.
- Donating to each others’ favorite charity. On my husband’s side of the family, we’ve been doing this for many years.
There’s no time like the present to present our young children the gift of broadening their understanding of the world around us. Let’s empower them to find their unique ways in which to make lasting impacts, to continue healthy relationships through contribution, encourage their leaderships abilities and to raise self-confident, compassionate human beings. And while we’re helping them, why don’t we help ourselves and in turn help the world? I personally like this win-win-win!
Peace and compassion in giving this holiday!
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DEC