People give gifts for various reasons, whether it’s for holidays, birthdays, or just because. Kids especially love unexpected presents. Teaching kids about giving can help shape them into considerate and balanced adults. Let’s discover how generosity changes the brain and what ways you can help your child learn about this valuable skill!

Keep in mind that children under 2 years old can’t grasp the concepts of generosity or empathy. Most kids begin to understand generosity around the age of 4 or 5. You can start introducing the idea at any age but don’t expect them to fully comprehend it until they’re in preschool.

How it Affects the Brain

Whenever an activity or action stirs our emotions, there’s a scientific basis for it because our feelings are rooted in our brains. Gift-giving and receiving can evoke strong emotions, indicating a “science” behind generosity. Those who give tend to lead happier lives.

Good Feelings

Gift-giving and receiving can evoke strong emotions, indicating a “science” behind generosity. Those who give tend to lead happier lives. People feel happier and better about themselves and the world after being generous, reinforcing the idea that giving is better than receiving.

Bad Feelings

While gift-giving often brings joy, it can also cause anxiety and stress, particularly if there’s pressure to give the perfect gift. If you or your child feel this way, help them rethink what makes a gift good. A good gift involves some sacrifice like money, time, or both. Explain to them that this shows that you understand them.

So, don’t let the cost, size, or complexity of a gift overshadow the joy of being generous. Focus on thoughtful giving that demonstrates care and understanding.

3 Methods to Teach Generosity

For kids, the easiest way to show generosity is often through material gifts—things that cost money. However, instead of just giving away items your child no longer needs, teach them that they can give back in many other meaningful ways. These might include giving of their time, talents, or something monetary like a gift.

1. Time

Your child can make a significant impact by volunteering their time. Whether it’s helping a neighbor with yard work or serving meals at a community center, their time is valuable.

2. Talents

If your child enjoys creative activities, they can use their skills to help others. For instance, they could make handmade cards for kids in the hospital or perform music at a local nursing home.

3. Gifts or money

While giving gifts for special occasions is common, encourage your child to think about how they can be generous year-round. They might want to buy groceries for a needy family or donate their toys to children in foster care.

Helping Kids Enjoy Giving

We’ve discussed how kids can give, but how do you  choose the areas for their generosity? Simple—let them decide!

• Do they love animals? Ask if they’d like to give their time, talents, or money to a local shelter or rescue group.
• Have they outgrown their clothes? See if they’re interested in donating their old winter jackets or helping distribute them through a local charity. 
• Do they like playing sports? Could they volunteer their time helping younger kids, even kids with disabilities learn sports?
• Do they enjoy toys? Let them pick out a toy to give to a child who may not have much.
• Do they like receiving gifts for Christmas? Have them be a part of giving kids presents on Christmas through your community or something global like Operation Christmas Child.

Talk to your child about what matters to them and help them connect with a person or organization that could use their help. The closer the cause is to their interests, the more enthusiastic they’ll be about giving back.

Demonstrate Generosity 

Setting an example and being a good role model is a recurring theme in Lighthouse School posts, and it’s especially important when teaching generosity. One of the best ways to encourage your children to be generous is to demonstrate generosity yourself.

Here are a few great tips for parents to create “generosity moments” with their children:

Share how you are generous

Give your child a firsthand account of how and why you show generosity. This encompasses everything from small acts of kindness, to how you donate to a charitable organization, or help your local community at the food bank. Teaching your children at an early age can instill a sense of generosity. 

Share how others were generous with you

Expressing how it feels to receive generosity shows your child the importance of giving. Maybe you show how much you love something that your spouse gave you. No matter how small, expressing your appreciation when others are generous toward you can make an impact.

Be generous with your children 

They’ll notice your reactions, so ensure they see you smiling and happy to give. Your actions set the foundation for how they will behave when giving. Show them how it feels good to give

Turn times of giving into teaching opportunities

A trip to the store to buy a gift for someone else can become a chance for your child to point out things they want. Be proactive by discussing the purpose of the trip, what the recipient appreciates, and how good it feels to be thoughtful when giving gifts. 

Make them your partner in giving

 If you’re looking for a gift for Grandma, ask them to help you pick something out. This can be especially easy during the holiday season. Start small to help your children learn and build empathy for others, something that can have a huge effect on their social skills.

Encourage Kids to be Good Givers

Don’t forget to encourage and praise your children for their generous thoughts and gifts. At Lighthouse School, we have found that oftentimes, verbal affirmation goes a long way. If you want to learn more about parenting, giving, or our school, we would love to connect with you! 

We’re currently enrolling new students at our preschool in Willis, Texas. Reach out to us today and let’s partner in your child’s education!