The holiday season is a time when we typically stop and think about others. In fact, we even learn stories about not being selfish during the holidays, but instead, we are striving to be selfless. Ummm, hello, “A Christmas Carol,” anyone? But thinking about others can be a hard lesson for our children when there is such a focus on material things. Think about how many times we ask our kids about their Christmas lists. A lot! Just that one act reinforces that the season is about things, not people. So how do we cultivate kindness and engage children in acts of charity without the spirits of Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and Christmas Yet to Come? 

Well, in the Portland area, there are lots of opportunities to learn about others that we will explore in this article. It is fine to do our traditions, to buy gifts, and all the things but it should be more than that. Teaching empathy, compassion, and generosity not only shapes our kids’ character but also contributes significantly to the betterment of this place we call home.

Encouraging Early Engagement

Instilling the value of giving in children begins with education and practice. Engaging kids in acts of kindness empowers them to understand the needs of others, fostering empathy and social awareness. In Portland, numerous initiatives cater to this purpose, providing avenues for children to participate actively in charitable endeavors. One great organization in Portland helping share acts of kindness is Positive Charge PDX. They have an annual cookie drive that is the perfect event to get your children involved in helping others. You bake cookies at home, and then they have a big event to put cookie trays together and make cards. The cookie baking can be for kids of any age, and the community event is for children at least six years old. What a wonderful way to get involved and show others love and compassion. 

Community Volunteer Programs

Organizations across Portland offer tailored programs that encourage children’s involvement in community service. Volunteering at local food banks, shelters, or community gardens allows kids to witness firsthand the impact of their actions in aiding the less fortunate. Sometimes, there can be some age restrictions, but there are plenty of ways to get involved. Programs such as SOLVE Oregon provide opportunities for families to join cleanup events, teaching kids the importance of preserving the environment while serving the community. Last summer, we at Oregon Kid even covered some family-friendly volunteer opportunities. In addition, Hands On Portland has a wonderful list of easy ways to volunteer with kids. Check it out here. 

Charitable Learning

Instilling charitable values in children involves education and awareness. Emphasizing the various ways kids are already contributing, even in subtle ways, can significantly impact their understanding of generosity and empathy. One way to help children become more charitable is to teach them. Charities Aid Foundation has a wonderful list about showing your kids how they are already giving. This is a great resource to teach children ways to help others. This proactive approach not only shapes compassionate individuals but also cultivates a future generation poised to tackle societal challenges with empathy, understanding, and a profound commitment to making the world a better place.

Fostering Kindness at Home

Beyond organized programs, parents and guardians have a profound influence on shaping children’s charitable attitudes. Encouraging discussions about giving, involving children in family acts of kindness, and supporting their initiatives amplify the impact of their benevolent efforts. The effects of engaging children in acts of kindness and charity reverberate throughout Portland. Not only does it create a sense of social responsibility, but it also strengthens community bonds. 

By cultivating a culture of giving in Portland’s youth, we pave the way for a brighter, more compassionate future. As these children grow into responsible citizens, their ingrained values of kindness and empathy will continue to shape the city positively. No need to have all the Dicken’s ghosts involved. Model charitable acts and kindness, not only during the holidays. That is our role as parents; we model what we want from them. Then our children already see what needs to happen … to look out for others. Engaging children in acts of kindness and charity not only nurtures compassionate individuals but also strengthens the community fabric.