This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Tom’s of Maine. All opinions are 100% mine.
As my kids grow I’m becoming aware of what a self-centered society I’m raising them in. I think the selfish instinct is one we are all born with, but I’m seeing more and more how it’s reinforced as the kids grow, in almost every aspect of life.
Taking care of other people is an after thought in many cases, and I don’t want my kids to grow up thinking that’s the way it should be.
I’ll be honest though. It’s hard for me to find a balance. When my kids are whining that they didn’t get a third snack yet today I want to lash out and say something like “there are kids who didn’t eat today stop whining!” (and truthfully, sometimes I DO say this, although I know it’s not the answer).
Saying something like this is typically just evidence of my own selfishness and my being at the end of my rope with their whining.
I’m starting to see that it’s the little everyday examples that I set that are going to help them learn to put others before themselves. Not moments of frustration when I try to communicate this all at once to a five year old and a three year old.
Looking for little ways to help other people, and even to take care of our planet, is one way we’re trying to be more intentional as a family.
Sometimes that means slowing down so we can explain what we’re doing in a certain situation to the kids. Other times, it means going out of our way to be kind to them, or create situations in which we can all give to some one else in a way that the kids can understand.
Quite honestly it’s a messy process. Not something I’m great at yet. But we’re taking baby steps together and that’s what matters.
I thought it could be helpful to come up with a list of ways you can help teach kids to give back in today’s post.
You don’t have to choose something from our list, but I encourage you to try to find a way to teach your kids about a lifestyle of giving and loving others!
One project you can work on with your kids is to pack homeless bags to keep in your car. You can use tote bags for men, and even old purses for women.
Fill them with snacks and hygiene products, so that when you see a homeless person on the street you have some useful help you can offer them. Protein bars, deodorant, a toothbrush and toothpaste, a comb, and feminine products could all go a long way.
Another option would be to start a small garden in your backyard. This is a way to reduce waste, because you can learn about composting, and you will save money too.
If you find your budget drops, another way to get your children involved in generosity is to let them help you select a charity to give to each month. Even if all you have is $5, talking about different charities and the importance of giving, even a small amount, can teach your child a lot about having an impact on the world around them.
With Earth Day having just passed, taking care of the planet is something that is on a lot of our mind’s right now. It’s something important to think about year round though! Which is why making small changes to your shopping routines is such a great place to start.
I appreciate that the Tom’s brand has taken such huge strides in caring for the planet with their Made to Matter Collection. It consists of Luminous White toothpaste which is a whitening toothpaste that is safe on enamel, as well as being gluten and paraben free.
They also have North Woods deodorant for men and Wicked Cool! deodorant for boys and girls. Both are free from artificial fragrances but still provide all day protection.
You can find the Made to Matter Collection only at Target, and even get a discount with the cartwheel offer right now.
This could be a great stop as you prepare bags and purses to keep in your car like we mentioned above! As you make the changes in your own home to more natural products, it’s the perfect chance to think about how you can have an impact on your community by providing help to those who need it most.
How do you work on sharing generosity with your kids? I’d LOVE to hear what you do, I’m looking for more ideas! And, tell me what you do to help your kids learn about taking care of the planet in big ways or small! I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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