‘Tis the season for sharing and caring. Opportunities to donate presents, work in soup kitchens, and sing at nursing homes are abundant.
But, did you know teaching your kids to incorporate service as a year-round, regular part of their lives has many practical benefits?
HOW WILL MY CHILD BENEFIT BY VOLUNTEERING?
We are all tight on times these days. But, squeezing a little time for community service into your family’s life can bring great rewards. Studies show that teens who volunteer just one hour each week, they reap the following benefits:
- 50% less likely to abuse alcohol, drugs, become pregnant or engage in other destructive activities;
- gain a better understanding of the world and those around them;
- develop stronger leadership skills;
- improve grades with higher graduation rates;
- far more likely to become voters and active citizens in their communities;
- feel a better sense of self-worth and efficacy.
TEACH YOUR CHILDREN TO SERVE OTHERS
As parents, you must take the lead on teaching your kids the importance of volunteer work. Here are a few tips to make that happen:
- You must be willing to model service yourself.
- Explain to your children that you serve them and others because you love them.
- Hold your children accountable for serving in the family
- Be sure to praise your children when you see them perform service.
- Look for opportunities to volunteer in the community that can include your children.
LEARN MORE
Want to know more about how service can improve your child’s life? Information for this post was taken from the following:
- Young Volunteers: The Benefits of Community Service
- 12 Reasons Community Service Should be Required in Schools
- Serving Others: Teaching Your Child to Serve
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