Adventures in Parenting

A year ago I wrote a post on 3 ways we can set an example to our children to make the world a better place.

Now more than ever, in our current state of the economy where people are distressed about one thing or another, it is important for everyone of us to do our part to bring a smile to people around us.

In addition to small acts of kindness, we can also help others financially without making much of a dent in our own pocketbook. Charities are experiencing low levels of giving. You can get your family together to make a little money in creative ways to give away.  This will teach our children that in times of need, they can be part of the solution. No gesture is too small.

Here are 3 ideas you can do with your kids to collect money.

1. Collect change and give it to a shelter your family decides on together. Fill the jar with change at the end of each day. Drink water instead of buying a drink when you eat out, and put the money in the jar. My kids loved looking for change around the house to put in the jar.

2. Have a garage sale and give the money to a favorite charity. Get a few families together. It’s a great way to clean the house. I found that the kids are more willing to give up their stuff to sell when they know the money is going towards something.

3. Recycle. Get some gloves on along with a trash bag, and walk around the schools to pick up bottles and cans. You’ll be surprised how much you can pick up. And you’ll be surprised at how much fun it is too.

What other ideas do you have?