Simple Ways to Help Little Ones Experience Kindness, Gratitude, and Joy This Season

The holiday season is full of magic for kids—sparkling lights, cozy moments, and yes, plenty of gifts! But beyond the wrapping paper and surprises, this time of year offers something even more meaningful to teach: the joy of giving.

Giving helps children understand kindness, empathy, and gratitude. It shows them that happiness doesn’t just come from what we get—it grows from what we share. Here are some simple, age-appropriate ways to help your child discover the true joy of giving this season.

💛 1. Start with Small Acts of Kindness

Big lessons often begin with small, simple actions. Encourage your child to do one kind thing each day:

• Draw a picture for a friend or neighbor
• Hold the door open for someone
• Help a parent or sibling with a chore
• Smile and say “thank you” to helpers at the store

🌟 Tip: Turn it into a game with our Free Kindness Challenge Printable — kids can color a star each time they complete an act of kindness!

🖨️ Download your free Kindness Challenge Printable here!

These tiny acts help kids see how kindness spreads—and how good it feels to make someone’s day a little brighter.

🎁 2. Give from the Heart (Not the Store)

Gifts don’t need to come with a price tag. Help your child brainstorm thoughtful gifts they can make or do for others.

• A homemade card or drawing
• A “coupon” for hugs, chores, or storytime
• A hand-painted ornament or photo frame
• Baking cookies for a neighbor

This teaches kids that giving is about thoughtfulness, not stuff. It’s the effort and love behind the gift that makes it special.

🧤 3. Donate or Share Together

If your child has outgrown toys, clothes, or books, let them help choose items to donate. Explain that their things can bring joy to another child.

💡 Try this: Read a story about sharing (like The Giving Tree or Those Shoes), then fill a donation box together.

Many communities also collect coats, canned goods, or holiday gifts for families in need—your child’s help makes the experience personal and powerful.

🧸 4. Give Your Time

For young children, time is one of the most meaningful gifts of all. Encourage them to give their time to family and friends:

• Read a story to a sibling
• Help bake a treat for a neighbor
• Call or video chat with a grandparent
• Make a “thank you” video for a teacher

These experiences teach children that giving isn’t always about objects—it’s about connection and care.

🎨 5. Reflect on Feelings of Gratitude

After each act of giving, talk about how it felt. Ask questions like:

• “How did it feel to give that gift?”
• “What do you think made the other person happy?”
• “What are you thankful for today?”

Reflection helps children connect kindness with joy and understand why generosity matters.

🎥 Keep the Giving Spirit Going with Schoolhouse Sprouts

At Schoolhouse Sprouts, we believe kids learn best through play, creativity, and kindness.
📺 Watch and subscribe to our YouTube channel for fun holiday crafts, songs, and activities that inspire kids to give, share, and grow.

Make this season extra special by filling it with love, learning, and giving.