Volunteering for kids enhances family
interactions, improves personal skills, and enriches the lives of individuals.
When volunteering as a family, each family member interacts with others and
finds opportunities to reflect. Individuals that volunteer engage in active
learning and build a sense of civic responsibility. Volunteering exposes kids
to new situations so they discover new interests and talents. Kids who may
struggle in school or competitive activities will shine in the right volunteer
setting. When someone expresses appreciation for a specific contribution a teen
has made, it may be the first time he realizes he has a valuable gift to offer.
Learning opportunities can be found not only at school but also within the
family and community. Parents and caregivers can promote learning experiences
by volunteering with their children in organizations, communities, sports, and
many other ways. Volunteering can give kids a chance to see themselves in a new
light. As our teens contribute to the greater good, they’ll learn a powerful
lesson. They can make a positive difference in the world.
When asked about the benefits of
volunteering for kids together as a family, the participants identified several
factors:
·
It brings the family
closer together
·
Value system strengthened
by volunteering; children see parents are involved
·
It builds extended family
among youth and other youth as well as youth and adults
·
Self-satisfaction; makes
you feel good
·
Strength in numbers;
family gets more done than individual
·
Increases family members’
self- esteem, skills acquisition, and opportunities to give back
·
Promotes exposure to real
world experiences and career information
·
Provides access to social,
physical, and financial resources
·
Fun; social; gives
children and youth something to do meaningful
Volunteering for kids teaches even toddlers
and preschoolers about compassion, empathy, tolerance, gratitude, and community
responsibility. And children who volunteer are more likely to continue doing so
as adults. If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities, chances are other
families in your community are as well. Start by talking to the administration
at your kids’ school or your place of worship. They’re likely to already
sponsor coat drives, book collections, food pantries, and other efforts for
those in need and chances are they need help. An easy way to find out about
volunteer opportunities in your area is to call your local volunteer center and
describe your location, interests and the ages of your children. The center
will probably have a database and be able to match you with an appropriate
volunteer project. You can also contact your churches about which charitable
groups in your area have requested help. If you've decided on volunteering for kids job, talk to the agency's volunteer coordinator about training and
orientation. Visit by yourself before making a commitment, and trust your
instincts about whether you think it will be a comfortable environment for you
and your children. Family service also promotes empathy and helps children
learn to recognize their personal good fortune and blessings. Volunteering together fosters positive communication and strengthens bonds in
ways no other activity can.