The New Year and new decade are upon us. We have survived the holidays again, and now we have a chance to take a deep breath, reflect on accomplishments and hardships of the previous year, and look toward future goals, events, and excitement. The “New Year, New Me” mentality encourages us to forget what happened in the previous year and look solely towards the future. In many ways it can be positive to put the past behind you and go boldly towards a better tomorrow. One thing that we shouldn’t forget is the mindset of the giving season and the concept of generosity.
We end each year with a season of joy, good will, and giving back. It is a beautiful time when we open our hearts and wallets to a variety of needs and charities. Generosity is encouraged and reinforced, and that generosity gives organizations and individuals the resources and ability to make positive changes throughout the year. Think of the impact that could be made if this generosity was more consistently given year-round.
When we think of generosity, it is generally in the sense of philanthropy and charity like in the example above. But kids learn kindness and generosity in their school and at home during the formative years. Beyond the obvious positive effects of generosity, many studies have found that being generous can reduce stress, enhance one’s sense of purpose, fight depression, and even lengthen one’s lifespan. But how do we teach our children to be generous?
In our youngest children, one of the best ways to teach generosity is to model generosity. Children mimic the actions of the adults in their lives. Whether you like it or not, your children are watching you, and they are picking up on your mannerisms and habits. If you want to raise a generous child, lead by example and let him witness his parents acting generously.
Another easy way to teach children generosity it to push your child into roles that demand hospitality. Invite other kids over for a play date. Force your child to share his space, toys, pets, food, and home with another child. This will put your child outside his or her comfort zone. The reaction will either be to throw a fit or adapt and be generous to his guest. If you do not receive the desired reaction, correct your child with your preferred type of punishment, redirection, or encouragement, and steer him in the direction of generosity.
Older children are more able to participate in generous acts. Plan a day for your family to volunteer at the local soup kitchen or blood bank. Or sponsor a child in an underprivileged area and ask your child to contribute a few dollars of his or her monthly allowance. Giving your children the opportunity to play an active role in generous giving will empower them to continue to pursue these opportunities as adults.
Generosity is a trait that is objectively good for the generous person and the people that will benefit from that person’s generous actions. Learning generosity is something incredibly useful for your children as they grow up and take on leadership positions. We will continue to reward and acknowledge generosity in your children to positively reinforce this behavior. To be truly successful, you also need to expose your child to generosity as he grows up. These actions in tandem will contribute to making your child a generous adult.
- Bria