The power of service can help with many things. It can create a giving heart, helps with children and grief, and allows kids to learn about different ways of life and the planet. Doing things for others can be a powerful thing. We live in a world where it’s common to ask ourselves, “what’s in it for me?” – volunteering reevaluates that mindset and helps us to understand how rewarding it can be to serve others.
That’s a lesson that is so important to pass on to kids.
If you’re interested in teaching your children more about the power of service, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Use these three tips to help you start.
1. Find Something That Includes Their Interests
An excellent way to show the power or service to your kids is to find something they already enjoy. So, hone in on their interests.
For example, is your kid an animal lover? Try volunteering with them at the local pet shelter where cats and dogs need good homes.
Does your child have a passion for cooking and food? Take them to a nearby homeless shelter or soup kitchen to feed those who can’t afford a meal otherwise.
By incorporating some of your child’s interests or hobbies, they’re more likely to see how they can use the things they already enjoy to help others in need and to make a difference genuinely. Most kids like knowing they’re doing something well-meaning. If that can include something they’re already good at or interested in, they’ll probably stick with it.
2. Bring Their Friends Along
Kids love doing things with their friends. No matter if your child is a leader or follower, they’re likely to stick with something longer if their friends are doing it, too.
So, if you’re planning a volunteer day, ask the parents of your child’s friends if those kids can come along, too!
Volunteering together as friends is a great way to build a closer bond while doing something worthwhile. Instead of an afternoon playing video games or even playing outside, your child and their friends could be making a big difference for someone through the power of service. When they realize that, they might want to make those outings more frequent.
3. Try Various Acts of Service
Try different ways of serving others as a family to keep your kid interested. You could make it a monthly outing by choosing different organizations for whom to volunteer. Spend one month volunteering at a local senior center. Next month, work to clean up local beaches or parks.
By making a schedule ahead of time, you’re more likely to stick with it. You can also get your kids involved in picking out different groups to whom you will contribute. Again, if they feel like they’re engaged and interested in what you’re doing, they’ll be more willing to put effort into it.
By adding variety to your acts of service, you’ll keep your kids interested. It will also help to open their eyes to how many needs there are. Between people, pets, and the planet, there are so many ways to get involved. You shouldn’t limit yourself (or your kids) to just one.
Serving Without Reward
The power of service is the rewarding feeling you get after doing something good for someone (or something) else. It’s not always easy for kids to see that on their own, especially in the society we currently live in.
So, use these tips to interest your kids in volunteering. You could be helping to create habits in them now that last a lifetime. That’s an excellent springboard for future generations to continue helping others in need.
If you’re needing support in your parenting endeavor or perhaps tackling the more important topics, please reach out to me today. Or, visit my page on children and grief to learn more about how I can help you and your child when it comes to navigating life’s tough areas.