Teaching Children the Value of Community Involvement
Periodically, I welcome a guest to join me on my blog. David Roy, Director of Community Partnerships for Knowledge Learning Corporation has authored the following article on the value of teaching children about community involvement.
Over the years, Knowledge Universe has had the privilege of partnering with hundreds of thousands of young children as they enjoy their first experiences in community involvement. Through various charitable campaigns, these children, their families and the teachers in their classrooms have raised awareness and millions of dollars for a variety of local and national organizations.
People often ask us about when children are ready to serve their communities. While all children are different, we think starting them earlier is not only developmentally appropriate, but key to building a foundation of giving that will last through childhood and into adulthood.
Research tells us (and our own experiences have confirmed) that children who participate in charitable activities benefit in many ways:
- They experience a sense of connection to their communities.
- They develop social responsibility.
- They become aware of diversity in their communities.
- They learn about cooperation, problem-solving and citizenship.
- They learn about cause-and-effect.
- They build confidence in knowing they can make a difference.
We’ve had years of experience with children and philanthropy, but starting small is a smart way to encourage community service for your own child. Recycling at home is a great way to incorporate community service into your daily routine.
During the holidays, there are many different activities that you and your child can participate in together to help organizations including delivering food baskets, gathering toys, wrapping gifts, and serving holiday meals at shelters. Not only do these activities create a fulfilling introduction on philanthropy and giving for your child, they offer you the opportunity to have a meaningful conversation about the importance of helping others in need and how that help can come in many different forms. You may find that this creates the beginning of a lasting holiday tradition for your entire family.
Another important thing that parents can do is to act as role models. Volunteer at your child’s school or center, and engage your child in conversation about community service. When you are ready to involve your child directly in a project or cause, consider your child’s interests, skill level, development level, and talk to your child when making your choice around supporting a particular organization.
Children have altruistic instincts, and we have found that they love being a part of something bigger, something that will benefit others. Studies show that children who participate in community activities are much more likely to do volunteer work as teens and into adulthood, so your efforts now will reap positive results for years to come.
With the holidays approaching and with this country and the world still languishing in a difficult economic climate, there is a keen focus on charitable activities and need. With a little preparation and consideration, you can involve your entire family in your efforts to help others.
About David Roy, Director, Community Partnerships
David Roy oversees grants, government-sponsored funding opportunities and corporate giving activities for Knowledge Learning Corporation, a leading national early childhood care and education company. David directs efforts to access grant and other funding for Knowledge Learning’s centers and programs, and helps facilitate the company’s philanthropic efforts, including those through Knowledge Learning Foundation.
David directs KinderCare’s national philanthropic fundraising campaign, which has generated over $12 million since 2000. He also directs the Knowledge Universe Early Childhood Educator Awards program, and serves in a leadership capacity for other organizational projects and initiatives, including KLC’s new preparatory school brand.
Tags: charitable activities, charity, community involvement, philanthropy
Uncategorized | Elanna | 
December 15, 2009 3:09 pm
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