The reality of birthday parties is that they are all about the child of the day. Gifts and money can often become the focus instead of just the celebration. Allow the child to be on the receiving end but at the same time, teach him or her about giving. Turn the party into an act of kindness for others who are less fortunate.
Teaching Service Through Birthday Celebrations
Birthday parties are great opportunities to teach kids to give to the community. Talk to them ahead of time and let them know while it is okay to receive presents, it's also important to give.
The child's age will help steer the discussions. Younger kids may not need a full explanation of the plight of the homeless or the needs in domestic violence centers. Tone it down to meet their level of maturity. A simple statement like "There are kids in the hospital who could use some books" may be all that's required to get the child to help.
Older kids can be more involved. Help them find their own interest level for helping others. They might like animals and want to collect items for shelters. Maybe they would like to do something for older people in nursing homes. Decide who or what will be helped before getting too far into the party planning.
Get the Message to the Guests
Once it's decided what part of the community should be helped, the next step is to find out their needs. Nursing homes, veterans' hospitals, homeless shelters, and children's services will all have different wish lists.
- Type up the wish list and make copies to include in the party invitations. For example, a list for a homeless shelter may include items like shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, and toothpaste.
- Make sure the list includes an explanation for the request.
- Keep the list of items inexpensive. Toiletries can be picked up for a dollar at some stores.
Suggestions for Helping
There are many opportunities to help out in a community. It's just a matter of finding the right fit. Here are a few ideas.
- Check the local children's hospital or children's wing of the hospital. Their needs could include stuffed animals, books, magazines, or games. Guests could easily pick up one of these items to donate at the party.
- Animal shelters may need supplies to help care for their animals. How about asking guests to bring a can of dog or cat food?
- Don't forget there are some people in hospitals or other facilities who don't get cards or visitors. Have the guests make cards instead of playing games. If the party's around a holiday, make cards for the occasion. Otherwise, cards to let the recipients know they're being thought of will work just fine.
- If involving the guests doesn't sound like it will work, children can be encouraged to donate part of their cash gifts to a cause. Again, let the children help with the decision making process.
The message in the activities is not that the kids themselves are getting too much or they're acting selfishly. Instead, make sure the children know the message is one of helping others less fortunate. Instilling a sense of giving early in their lives will often lead to a lifetime of helping others.
 |
 |
