Gifts to wrap, food to buy, parties to attend—it seems your to-do list around Christmastime grows longer each year.

You search for the best gifts for your children (or grandchildren) and once Christmas morning comes and the wrapping paper flies off in a flurry, they’re lost in the wonder of new gifts. It’s an exciting time for sure, but sometimes the true meaning of Christmas can get lost in the excitement.

Talking to your kids about generosity during the Christmas season is important, but finding the right time to do so can be difficult.

That’s why we’re here to help!

Check out these three ways you can talk to your kids about giving at Christmas and inspire generosity in your home.

Three Ways to Teach Your Children about Giving

Set an Example

The secret to raising generous givers is to model it yourself! Your kids look to you as an example, so when you give—whether at church, at home, or even being generous with your time—they take note.

As you’re wrapping presents this Christmas, take the opportunity to talk to your kids about why we exchange gifts. You can tell them the story of God’s greatest gift to us, Jesus, and the wise men who traveled far from their homes to bring Jesus precious gifts. We give to remember God’s gift to us! Then, encourage them to think about who they could give to this Christmas.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Deuteronomy 6:5-7

Encourage Generosity

Raising generous givers starts at home, and often as a parent or grandparent, that means you! Encourage your kids when you notice them acting kind and generous, such as sharing a favorite toy or game or letting a sibling “go first.” An encouraging word from mom or dad (or grandma or grandpa) is memorable and leaves a lasting impression.

Recognizing generous hearts, especially during this season of giving, goes a long way to develop cheerful givers.

Give as a Family

Do something generous (and fun!) together as a family this Christmas. Whether it’s volunteering your time or giving of your talents, it shows your kids that giving is something you value as a family. Generosity isn’t something you just talk about together, it’s something you do! Plus, your kids will be able to see firsthand the difference they can make by helping someone in need. Remember to ask them how they feel afterward and talk about why doing these things (whether volunteering or giving monetarily) are important to your family.

When you show, encourage, and talk about giving, over time your kids will take note.

Gifts Your Kids Will Love to Give

One practical way you can teach your kids about giving this Christmas is with the help of the Global Gift Guide. The section “Just for Kids,” features gifts we know kids love to give! From goats to soccer balls and chickens, each gift helps a kid just like them who is living in one of the world’s poorest places.

It only takes a few minutes to click to the page, watch the short video about giving with your kids, and choose a gift to give.  When they’re able to see and understand how their gift helps, the joy it brings is something they’ll hold on to throughout the holiday season.

Check it out with your kids and inspire generosity today!