It\u2019s important for kids to know even small acts can make a difference. Volunteering teaches this lesson and builds caring and empathy in children from an early age. Even toddlers are capable of learning about compassion and community responsibility through volunteering.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Finding the Age Appropriate Volunteering Activities<\/strong><\/p>\n Choosing the right volunteer opportunities for kids helps keep them invested in charitable activities. Start by calling your local volunteer center. Describe your own interests and your kids\u2019 ages, and ask the center for some volunteering suggestions. You can also contact church or religious centers, local nursing homes, food banks, and animal shelters.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Preparing Children for Volunteering<\/strong><\/p>\n Once you decide how your family is going to volunteer, sit down with the kids and explain what you\u2019ll be doing and why. Be enthusiastic, and present volunteering as fun as well as the right thing to do. (This is important. Even adults are more likely to honor volunteering commitments if they enjoy what they\u2019re doing.)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Kids will have questions, of course. Answer them as honestly as possible. For instance, if kids want to know why the family will be volunteering at a nursing home, explain you\u2019ll be helping keep older people like Grandma and Grandpa company. Emphasize why the volunteering is important\u2014you\u2019re helping make sure the old folks don\u2019t get lonely, or you\u2019re helping keep the park clean so everyone can enjoy it.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Volunteering Opportunities for Kids<\/strong><\/p>\n Below are just some of the many volunteering opportunities your kids can get involved with. They include:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n