I’m a mom and I like to mom-smart not mom-hard (it’s like work-smart not work-hard). If I can double duty something I will. If I can turn a family outing into a fun educational experience, I can’t pass up the opportunity.

I have taken my son out to volunteer with me and I must say it’s always such a positive experience for both of us. For one thing, it’s an activity we do together and that kind of things just strengthens the relationship. TOGETHER we played a part to make the world a little better. It feels good for both of us. But the joy is doubled for me because getting my son to feel the rewards of community involvement is something that’s hard to match. He is getting life experience, and feeling good about his place in the world.  

It’s fun to do things like go the park, or laser tag, or bike riding, but doing something like spending a few hours distributing blankets to homeless people or working at the food bank,  is truly remembered. It’s a rich experience that goes a long ways in building a child’s sense of responsible for their community.  It builds grace in their character.

Kids get opportunities to do service work with some of the groups they are involved in like scouts. However, doing a fun volunteer activity with a parent sends the message, “In our family, we contribute to a greater good”. There is a slightly different and somewhat deeper meaning to that message because, after all, the groups will change but the family is something you will always be a part of.

 I suggest letting your child pick from a few different volunteer activities that you have selected then go and do it with them. It doesn’t have to be grueling work, maybe its just helping to care for kitties at the animal shelter for a bit or delivering a few meals on wheels. You both will get a lot out of the experience and doing together. Plus it provides great things for the city we live in. It’s win win win.

If you volunteer with your children I’d love to hear about it.