10 Ways to Spread Kindness this Holiday Season

There’s no better time to remind children of the importance of giving than during the holidays, and there are plenty of people in need of a little help. Serving in your local community is a great way to help kids see the good in their own lives and better understand their own capacity for bringing good into the world… even if they’re little.
 
One of our favorite ways to inspire ideas for impacting your community (or even helping the other people under your roof) is with these free service list printables from The Giving Manger. With special itemized lists for “young children,” “older children,” and “families,” you’re sure to find something everyone can do to help. They also sell Kindness Cards, “a deck of 55 ideas to help you spread joy.” Here are 10 more ways you can make a difference in someone’s life this winter:

1. Shovel snow for a neighbor (or offer to water their outdoor plants if you live someplace warm).
2. Decorate a tree in a populated area for people passing by.
3. Clean out your closets and donate old hats, mittens, and coats to a local shelter. You can also donate books or toys to Goodwill or a homeless shelter.
4. Volunteer at your local library, a soup kitchen, or a loading dock for a local nonprofit. Any charity that gives clothing often needs help sorting or unloading clothes.
5. Are your kids interested in a particular world cause? Find a charity that supports that cause and donate money together.
6. Have a holiday baking party and give the cookies to civic offices or services in your community.
7. Donate snacks or chew toys to a local animal shelter.
8. Donate a cozy blanket to Project Linus for a child in need.
9. Volunteer to babysit. Do you know a couple who could use a night out? Babysit as a family and clean up while you’re there.
10. Send a care package to someone deployed overseas.