8 Volunteer Ideas For Kids

As we approach the season of giving, we are thinking about ways to give back to our communities. If you’re wondering, "How can kids volunteer this holiday season? ”, we’ve got you covered!

Kids of all ages can give back, and it’s never too early to start teaching your kids about volunteering. And along the way, we’ll bet they can learn some valuable life lessons. Keep reading for a list of 8 volunteer ideas for kids.

A simple way to encourage kids to volunteer is by participating in community clean-ups in your local areas. For example, many communities host annual clean-ups at a local beach, park, or community garden. This not only teaches kids about ways to care for our environment but also introduces them to teamwork and community building.

Are your kids too young for a structured community clean-up? Pack a picnic and teach them the importance of making sure you bring your trash home with you or disposing of it in the proper trash and recycling bins. Demonstrate cleaning up after yourselves and discuss how it impacts both the community and the environment.

Pre-holidays are a great time to part with toys that your kids no longer use or children’s clothes that they no longer fit. Instead of throwing them out though, donate items that are still in good condition to your local homeless shelter, local library, second-hand shop, or local charities.

Not only will you be making room for the new items that will be brought into the home this holiday season, but it is also a meaningful way to teach your kids about sharing and generosity. Consider making it a new family routine by sorting through toys and closets together once a quarter.

Writing letters to seniors is a great opportunity for kids who love to create to give back! Start by reaching out to senior centers or nursing homes in your area and ask if they are accepting handmade cards and letters. If they are, then get crafting as a family!

Create personalized cards and cheerful letters, or draw pictures wishing the resident a happy holiday. This simple act of kindness can brighten someone's day.

Teaching your kids to express gratitude is a powerful lesson. So spend an afternoon writing thank you notes to the local heroes in your community such as mail carriers, teachers, and first responders. This helps your kids understand the hard work these individuals put into their jobs and helps them develop an appreciation for their community and community service members.

For your animal-loving kiddo, contact your local animal shelter to see if they have any volunteer work available. From playing with dogs or cuddling kittens to cleaning up, there may be something for you and your family to do!

You could also ask if they are in need of any supplies, and teach your child about saving money to meet a specific need. Set goals to buy new leashes, toys, or dishes for the animal shelter.

Teach them the importance of fundraising and giving back to their community by donating money to a local charity. Encourage them to earn money by completing chores around the house, setting up a lemonade stand, returning empty cans or bottles, or by doing light yard work.

This will teach them about saving and budgeting as well as demonstrating the difference even small contributions can make. Once they have collected enough, take them to a charity of their choice and let them see how their efforts can directly benefit others.

As your kids create their own wishlist for the holidays, encourage them to pick something out for a child in need. Many storefronts have a toy donation box, where you can donate new toys to be given to kids in need. Head to the store together, pick out something new, and leave it in the box. Talk about how that little kid will be so excited to unwrap a new toy this holiday season!

Many charities also look for school supplies for kids in need. Shop together for a cute kids backpack, and fill it with new notebooks, markers, and pencils to donate!

Resource: 

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/a34305706/community-service-ideas/