Fun Holiday Service Projects for Your Family

"If you have kids, it’s a parenting no-brainer to get involved in a service project this holiday season. Several studies have shown that kids who volunteer experience a positive effect on their grades, attitudes toward education, and self-esteem. Volunteering also leads to reduced drug use and huge declines in dropout rates and teen pregnancies. There is also research linking youth volunteering to a higher quality of life as an adult, and showing that families that focus more on the material side of the holidays tend to feel less happy than families that focus on spending time together. What better way to spend time together than volunteering? It’s really the best gift you can give your children and yourselves." With schools closing and holiday festivities approaching quickly, this week we offer you an article that shares 11 holiday volunteering ideas for families to inspire you and your family to open your hearts this season! [ read more ]

Title: The Berenstain Bears Think of Those in Need
By: Stan Berenstain
Ages: 3-8

"As we all know, Christmas can become a season of greed, with kids asking for the latest new toy or game they've heard about.  This book is a timeless classic that invites kids to take a break from their Santa lists and help those who are less fortunate.  Our 3-year-old daughter has enjoyed all of the books in this series and this one in particular is a holiday favorite at this time of the year."

Share the service project ideas in this week's article with your children and invite them to choose one that inspires them -- make a plan as a family to serve together this holiday season!