As families gear up for the new school year, fresh notebooks, sharpened pencils, and a new routine, it’s also a great time to talk with kids about generosity. Going back to school is all about learning, and one of the most valuable lessons children can carry with them is the power of giving. “The importance of giving back is one of the best lessons I learned from my parents. The values of giving and volunteering shaped the person I am today” said Christian Maher, Executive Director of the Crawford Heritage Community Foundation.
Instead of focusing only on what they’ll get this school year, you can also help them think about what they can give, like school supplies for children in need or books for a classroom library. More and more families are wrapping charitable giving into holiday parties, shifting the focus from stacks of toys to acts of kindness. Kids may ask their friends to bring books for a children’s hospital or treats for their favorite animal shelter. Some families even make it an activity, like writing cards for nursing home residents, or packing donation boxes together.
These moments are an opportunity to teach kids, at any age, that giving matters and that they have the power to make a difference. Here are a few ways to nurture that mindset:
- Make it part of your family rhythm.
Charitable habits don’t grow overnight. Just like homework and bedtime routines, generosity takes practice. Talk with your kids about why giving matters and show them how you decide where to give. Maybe they set aside part of their allowance, or maybe you build a back-to-school tradition of supporting a local classroom or youth program. The more intentional you are, the more it becomes second nature to them.
- Connect money with impact.
The start of school is a perfect time to show kids how dollars can translate into real change. For example, $10 might provide crayons and markers for a child’s art class, while $100 could supply backpacks for several students. Help your kids make a “giving budget” alongside their back-to-school shopping list, so they can see how generosity fits right in with everyday choices.
- Give kids choices.
Just as they pick their school outfits or lunchbox designs, children love having a say in what causes they support. Encourage them to explore giving opportunities that interest them, whether that’s helping animals, caring for the environment, or making sure every child has the supplies they need for school. When they choose the cause, they’re more engaged in the giving.
- Make it hands-on.
Kids learn best by doing. This fall, try activities like writing encouraging notes for teachers, donating gently used books, or volunteering at a weekend food drive. Hands-on experiences not only help others but also give your child a deeper understanding of compassion and community.
According to Amanda Chapel, Philanthropic Services Coordinator of the Crawford Heritage Community Foundation, “Through my work, I’ve had many conversations with my kids about what I do and why organizations need money. With Girl Scouts, we introduce them to different nonprofits and explain how they fund their work and how volunteers play a role. I remind them that just because someone is doing a job doesn’t mean they’re paid. It may be a volunteer choosing to share their time and talents. When we use services funded by donations, such as the library, kids’ programs, or the zoo, I point that out. I also show them the organizations I support and why. That opens up discussions about their interests and the needs in our community, and often they want to give their own money. I reassure them that even small amounts matter. Doing good makes you feel good. Kids quickly understand that it’s not about recognition. It’s about knowing you chose to help a cause you care about. That’s what makes it feel special, just like giving a gift to a friend.”
At the end of the day, helping your children connect with charitable giving is about planting seeds. The habits they form now, maybe compassion, generosity, and thoughtfulness, can grow into values they’ll carry as adults. And remember, the Crawford Heritage Community Foundation is always here to help families find meaningful ways to give. We’re honored to work with all generations of community-minded people, because the future of our region depends on it.