Children learn in their growing age that they should ask for things they need. But as each child grows and develops a healthy mindset children must learn the importance of giving. Having a young child who does not hesitate to give chocolate gift hampers to their friends from their allowance is something to be proud of for every parent. Here we discuss the practices, habits, and best models to encourage children to give gifts for the overall benefit of the peace and tranquility of the society.
Applaud Giving
Young children are easily motivated by words of affirmation and they can be every parent’s powerful tool. Explain to the child that they must give only for the sake of being generous without showing off to the rest of the world. This way the person who has received the gift will respect you more even if the gift was not a very expensive one. On the contrary, even an expensive gift will have no meaning if the donor is giving the gift for the sake of showing off to the rest of the world what they gave to so and so.
Become A Role Model & Enlighten Your Child
According to research, children are more likely to imitate positive behaviour when they see one of their parents doing it. But just showing them what to do is not the only thing that is required from parents, they also need to have receptive conversations with their children. It is highly possible that the child does not share the same feelings as the parent or has a completely different point of view which is in stark contrast to the deed being done. It is much more likely the child will participate in the conversation positively and be encouraged to do the right thing once, both the child and parent are at par with their point of view on the situation.
Let Them Know They Have A Choice
Some families and organisations try to teach children philanthropy by making them participate in mandatory charitable actions or programs. This is not always a positive way to teach children altruistic behaviour because according to research, people or children who are forced to give gifts will perceive their actions to be much less charitable and more forced. The same is the case if you offer rewards or gifts to children for being charitable. The best way is to let them know that they always have a choice and it is completely up to them if they want to help somebody just for the sake of helping them without anything in return.
Let Them See The Results
Children will feel much more satisfied and obligated to be charitable when they see the impact of their gift-giving. Keep in mind that young children, below the age of five, will have a very obscure and vague concept of money. This is why they might not completely comprehend the impact of a financial donation in comparison to a donation of tangible goods. Always start by giving gifts of tangible objects rather than money to help teach children the value of gift-giving. Try to make the gift something that is cherished by the receiver to make the whole experience worthwhile for everybody involved.