Let’s raise the next generation to be selfless, kind, and thoughtful through giving back… are you in?

As the jingle bells start chiming, and the aroma of cinnamon-spiced treats fills the air, our entire family gets thrilled for the holiday season.

But amidst the excitement and festivities, I hold an essential aspect close to my heart: teaching my five kiddos the joy of giving back.

I'm Lindsey, also known as the "Elderberry Queen" around here. But more importantly, I'm a mom who believes in nurturing empathy and compassion in my little ones. With the holidays knocking at the door, it's the perfect time to instill the spirit of giving in our kids, don’t you agree?

But it’s a quality and character trait we want to last way beyond the lit-up Christmas trees and Santa Claus.

The goal is for them to embrace this way of life, this perspective — all year long.

Here are a few ways that have helped my kids understand the beauty of giving back with generosity and kindness during the holiday season and afterward.

Lead by Example

Children are like little sponges. They absorb the behaviors they see. Because of this, I make it a point to involve my kids in charitable activities, whether it's:

Volunteering at a local shelter
Donating clothes
Participating in community drives

I genuinely love giving back to the community. I also hope that by demonstrating these acts of kindness myself, I can inspire them to follow suit. Being a part of the community is important, just as meaningful conversations are.

Engage in Meaningful Conversations

Communication is key! I find that discussing the importance of empathy and helping those in need allows my kids to understand the world beyond their own experiences.

We talk about why some families may not have enough food or warm clothes and how we can make a difference, no matter how small our actions may seem. This often leads us to our family tradition of giving back.

Make Giving a Family Tradition

Creating traditions around giving can be both heartwarming and impactful. In our family, we've established rituals like setting aside a "giving jar" where each child contributes a portion of their allowance so we can donate it or buy a gift for someone in need.

We’ve also participated in picking a child from a "giving tree," where each of my children picks a tag and personally buys a gift for that person in need. They embrace these acts of kindness wholeheartedly.

Embrace Acts of Kindness

Small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect. Whether it's baking cookies (check out these hot chocolate cookies) for our neighbors or writing heartfelt Christmas cards to some widows and widowers in our community.

These gestures teach our children that even the simplest acts can bring so much joy to others. This brings us to the importance of personal involvement.

Encourage Personal Involvement

Encouraging my kids to identify causes close to their hearts has been instrumental. Whether that’s organizing a toy drive or fundraising for a local animal shelter. Allowing them to take the lead empowers them and makes the experience more meaningful.

Giving back is extremely important, especially in a community. Through all this kindness and generosity, it’s essential to take pockets of time to sit and reflect on your life. It’s beneficial for you and your kiddos to express gratitude for all that you have and are allowed to do.

It also helps them learn to have initiative and a voice for people who don't have one. It helps them feel like a deeper part of the community.

Reflect and Express Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful force. Alongside giving, we emphasize the importance of appreciating what we have. We reflect on our blessings regularly and express gratitude for the opportunities we have to make a positive impact in this world.

Celebrate the Joy of Giving

Lastly, I ensure we celebrate the joy that comes with giving. I want them to see that giving is not just about material gifts but about spreading happiness and hope.

Teaching our children to give back during the holidays isn't just about the tangible acts; it's about nurturing their souls to become kind, compassionate individuals.

As parents, we have the incredible opportunity to shape their perspectives and encourage an empathetic mindset that extends far beyond the holiday season.

So, as we decorate our homes with twinkling lights and wrap presents with beautiful bows on top, let's also embrace the spirit of giving and guide our little ones toward a joy-filled world.

The Way We Give at Elderberry Queen

Here at Elderberry Queen, we practice what we preach. This means we give a portion of our proceeds to several different charities, including:

Stories Foundation: A nonprofit that fights human trafficking and related issues through social impact business, awareness education and community engagement.
Operation Underground Railroad: An organization leading the fight against sex trafficking and sexual exploitation worldwide.
Samaritan's Purse: A nondenominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to people hurting around the world. Since 1970, they’ve helped meet the needs of people who are victims of war, poverty, natural disasters, disease and famine with the purpose of sharing God’s love.
Amazima Ministries: This ministry serves communities in and around Jinja, Uganda, by providing education for children and youth, medical care, vocational training and discipleship for women, children and families.
World Vision: This global Christian humanitarian organization partners with children, families, and their communities to help them reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

Each of these organizations is near to my heart. They are truly paving the way and making a real difference in our world. Saving lives, meeting real needs and spreading the word of God. I’m so grateful to support each and every one of these!

With Every Purchase, You’re Making a Difference

Every purchase from our shop impacts one or more of these charities — in real lives that need your support. So now you can know where your money is going and feel good about investing in natural and immune support for yourself, your family and your friends.

With every dose of elderberry syrup and every roll of my essential oil blends, you can rest knowing you’re making a real difference in the world.

Explore these products to learn more:

🎄 Here's to a holiday season filled with love, generosity and the joy of giving back!

Giving Back: How to Teach Your Kids to Give Generously During & After the Holidays