The school-age 2 children at RisingOaks Early Learning | Oak Creek want to make the world a better place for everyone, where we all need to play our part in whatever way we can. It is never too early to start teaching children to give or to engage them with the concept of donation or charity. Giving has long-term impacts beyond the playgroup. Generosity can set the stage for better health with several benefits on individual well-being. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, donation can be defined as something of value such as money or goods that is given to help a person or an organization such as a charity or as an act of giving.
People give to charity on a regular basis to support causes they believe in, as well as for the positive effect it has on their lives. Donating is a major mood-booster, it makes you feel good, strengthens personal values, and is a reminder for friends and families to support others in so much need, and a powerful way of showing to children from a young age that they can make positive changes in the world. Children naturally love to help others, so nurturing their innate generosity is likely to mean that they will grow up with a greater appreciation of what they have and will carry on supporting good causes in years to come. By allowing kids the opportunity to give, they will be happier, have stronger social connections and inspire generosity on those around them.
The teacher from school-age 2 initiated age-appropriate conversations about charity and the impact of giving. By involving the children in these discussions, we’ll encourage them to ask questions and develop a deeper understanding of the importance of giving. When school-age 2 children were being asked what “giving” means for them and how can we do it, different sincere answers were given. Jahmanuel said, “Giving is when you give something to a friend.” Neveah said, “Giving is when I give my candies to my sister.” Fife added, “Giving is when I give my toys to my brothers.” Emma reminded us of who can we help “I am giving oranges to my grandma.” Gabriel said, “While on my vacation, I gave some clothes to other children because they do not have too many”. Small gestures like these can contribute to booster empathy and a solid sense of purpose in the world.
The children wanted to make some beautiful ornaments, using glitter and cotton balls. Each friend placed its own printed picture inside the ornament to make it more original. Kinley said, “I love working on my ornament, pink glitter is my favorite; I am sure the other kids will love it.” Others, wanted to put their fine skills and imagination to work while painting some nice canvas and paper frames while choosing and mixing their favorite color, thinking about other friends who are not given the opportunity to experience and enjoy such moments. The school-age friends wanted also to donate some food for people in need, now around the Christmas time, so that a warm and delicious dinner can be possible for those who can’t afford one.
Through activities like these, children learn to be more appreciative of what they have, how we can do better in the future, and how we can bring our hearts closer to other friends that would love a sincere and innocent gesture. The research on giving is clear, kids gain even more when they give. They have a better sense of well-being, more acceptance among pears and even higher academic achievement.
