Elementary Program Primary Program Toddler Program

Resources for Inspiring Giving and Gratitude in Children

By Cecilia Fernandez, Primary Teacher

Children’s books can be a helpful resource when teaching children the importance of giving.  They can facilitate conversations, ideas and plans.  Some of the classic books that showcase different ways of giving are: The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein; It’s Mine! By Leo Lionni;The Gift of Nothing, by Patrick McDonnell; The Man in the Clouds, by Koos Meinderts; The Invisible Boy, by Trudy Ludwig

Pebble Tossers is a free, local resource organization that offers volunteer opportunities for children and families of every age and ability level, from “kitten cuddler”, which helps to socialize cats as future adoptees, to delivering sandwiches to homeless citizens.  Setting the model of giving and empathy not only during the holidays, but throughout the year is the the most powerful gift we can give our children.