Do your children do anything in their daily lives for others?  I’m not talking about their chores, their school homework or their daily responsibilities as members of the family.  I’m talking about activities that help others, that serve those in need of help such as some type of charity?

Discuss the options with your children.  What are they willing to give of themselves in order to make the lives of others easier?  I learned from one author that there are four ways of making contributions to others:

1. The gift of their thinking:  Is there an organization that can benefit from their ideas and their best thinking?  Cub scouts, boy scouts, after school programs and social clubs are natural places for children to express their thoughts and ideas.  I volunteer for several organizations and my best contribution is my best thinking!
2. The gift of their time:  Is there a place where your child can spend time and be willing to serve in whatever capacity is needed?  It could be at the local veterinarian’s office to spend time with rescue dogs and cats.  It can be selling cookies at a bake sale to raise money for cancer awareness.  It can be in fundraising efforts for an individual or group.
3. The gift of their talent:  Is your child good at one or several skills or activities that can benefit others?  Might he or she be good at participating in high school leadership programs, summer camps or talent shows that raise money for charities?
4. The gift of their treasures:  If money is payment for services rendered, the money a child earns, saves and donates can easily demonstrate a commitment to a cause over and above their own personal needs.  .

Just like you, children can create the self-confidence in knowing they can stand alone and make valuable contributions to others in need.

Zari Alipour, Ph.D.

Making Wise Choices in a Disruptive Age

www.DrZari.com

Zari@DrZari.com

310-574-3832

Dr. Zari is a psychologist for adolescents and adults.  She teaches adolescents how to make decisions that are in their best interests and empowers teachers, counselors and parents with the words and accountability tools that reinforce healthy choices.