Children look at their parents’ examples of generosity, compassion, and selflessness and carry these family values on to the next generation, says author Terri Khonsari. There are many ways to be philanthropic, and everyone can find a way to include philanthropy in their lives, she adds. Encourage your children to give their time, talents and material belongings by doing the same yourself. Go online to learn five ways to teach your children how to enjoy the act of giving.

1. Share Your Talents
   Make a list of different ways that your children can give just by using their talents. If they read well, or are a whiz at math or science, they could tutor a younger sibling or friend. If they have artistic talent, they could help with the artwork for a fundraising poster or flyer. If they sing or play a musical instrument, have them make a CD for a shut-in to brighten their day.
   
   
2. Share Your Time
   Time is often the greatest gift of all. Talk to your children about ways to give their time. They can stay after school to help the teacher organize the classroom, take out the trash for an elderly neighbor, or baby-sit for someone who needs a little time to themselves. This teaches not just caring about others, but responsibility too.
   
   
3. Give to Other Children
   Pack a bag with cookies, hot chocolate, and a couple of nice children's books and go with your family to a children's hospital or rehabilitation center. Have your kids read to the kids who spend their holidays there. You can create memories in your child's mind of being a good friend and giving to those in need.
   
   
4. Volunteer with the Elderly
   Take your kids to the local hospital or retirement community on holidays or weekends to visit. Take some cookies and gifts for those who don't have visitors and listen to their stories. The older generation has so much to offer, and we can teach our children to respect them and their knowledge, and accept what they have to share. Just listening is a great gift to give.
   
   
5. Step Outside National Boundaries
   Sponsor a child in a third world country. Send money on a monthly basis and communicate with them regularly. Tell your kids that this is a new sibling of theirs, and plan together to send him or her toys or clothing every few months. If you can afford it, go visit that child with your children and let them experience the difference of the culture and world in which they live.

Giving your children real world opportunities to practice acts of love and kindness will teach them life lessons of compassion and generosity. You can encourage them to be thoughtful and kind and boost their self-esteem and pride at the same time. Learning that they can make a difference makes them grow in self-confidence and joy!

Terri Khonsari is the author of Raising A Superstar: Simple Strategies to Bring Out the Brilliance in Every Child. To learn more about Terri’s work visit http://www.raisingasuperstar.com/ and sign up for more free tips on raising happy, healthy, and successful children.