How to talk charity with children

Everyone has causes they care about and changes they would like to see in the world, and what better way to achieve this than to raise the next generation to be kind, compassionate and generous?

Studies show that humans are innately generous, and toddlers from the age of two are happier giving away than they are when receiving gifts. Nurturing this generous spirit by teaching children about charity, whether it’s at home or in the classroom, is a great way to get them thinking about the causes they care about and how they can have an impact. Giving charitably as a family or school can teach children how good it feels to give back, and empower them to make a positive difference to the lives of others.

If you are hoping to start the conversation about charitable giving with the children in your life, but aren’t sure where to start, here are a few tips that are designed to make your life a little easier!

Break it down and keep it simple

Keep ideas simple and easy to understand. Stick to discussing core charitable themes such as helping others, kindness, and being generous.

Be curious and ask questions

Ask children their opinions on what they care about, and what changes they wish they could make in the world. Who would they help if they could? Express curiosity for their ideas and encourage them to think more deeply about others.

Talk about how you help others

Explain how you give back to the causes you care about. If you volunteer, explain what you do, and the impact it has. Talk about the causes you donate money to, and how that money could make a difference.

Give a Charitable Allowance

Back-up your conversations by giving a charitable allowance of $10 a month into an Impact Account. Children can then donate this to the charity, or cause of their choice. This allows them to directly engage with the act of giving, and experience the good feeling that follows!

Children are the future so let’s do our best to make it a great one! We’d love to hear your thoughts on how best to approach the subject of charity with children – let us know at @wearecharitable.