5 Ways to Practice Generosity With Kids

Generosity is freely sharing with others the many gifts God has given us, and our God is an abundantly generous God! When we feel gratitude for God’s many gifts to us, that gratitude overflows in generosity. Here are five of God’s wonderful gifts, along with suggestions for how you and your kids can share these gifts generously with others.

1 THE GIFT OF CREATION

God gifted us with an incredible world to care for! Find ways to share it with your kids and help them care for it in service to others. If you have a family garden, share what you grow. Invite others to spend time with your family enjoying nature outdoors. Organize or participate in a neighborhood cleanup; volunteer at an animal shelter. Pick up trash at a local park.

2 THE GIFT OF SACRIFICIAL LOVE

Jesus gave all that he had for others. In your family, do everything you can to model and share that kind of love! Assure your kids daily of your love for them. Care for the people around you who are hurting. Share your possessions without complaint, and encourage your kids to do the same. Look for ways to tell others about God’s abundant love.

3 THE GIFT OF UNIQUE ABILITIES 

Make a list of the unique gifts and talents with which God has gifted each member of your family. Now add to the list ways to share those abilities with others. What are you doing already? What might you do in the future? Ask the Holy Spirit to nudge you when there are opportunities to share your family’s gifts. 

4 THE GIFT OF MATERIAL RESOURCES

Sharing your stuff can be hard for kids—and for adults too! Talk about the fact that all we have comes from God. Give kids ownership in the practice of generosity by asking, “Is there something you could share?” or “I wonder how you could bless [name] with something you have?” Help young children practice generosity by giving them extra snacks or other items to share on playdates. Involve older kids in choosing organizations to support with donations. 

5 THE GIFT OF TIME 

God has given each of us a lifetime in which to serve God and our neighbor. Talk with kids often about how God might be calling them to spend their days, both now and in the future. Volunteer enthusiastically with your kids. Take time to listen deeply to each other and to people in pain. As a family, make space for regular sabbath rest.

For more great ideas for family faith formation, check out the Dwell at Home resources at DwellCurriculum.org/home and the Faith Practices Project at crcna.org/FaithFormation/Practices.