How early teach them about giving

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ouch98

Guest
#1
#1
If there is a better place for this question, I apologize, please direct me to the right place.

How early and how do I start teaching children to give gifts to those who have nothing? My child is 4 and loves to put money into the children's jar at church. I would like to start a family tradition of a reverse advent box or collecting toys for kids who will receive none. I've looked up ideas online, but haven't' found any that would work for someone as young as 4. Does anyone have any ideas or experience?
 
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oldethennew

Banned
#2
Feb 28, 2016
11,311
2,972
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#2
you'd be surprised at how much a (4)yr. old can and will learn from
parents who freely give as Jesus leads them, they will learn by example...
 
Roughsoul1991

Roughsoul1991

Senior Member
#3
Sep 17, 2016
8,784
4,452
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#3
Sooner the better. Start now! From 2 years old up to estimate about age 10 the foundation in your child will be so hard to change and almost impossible. We only have a short window to program their minds before the rebellious teenage years kick in. And by that point, we must pray they will remember how they were brought up. At that point parents just do the best they can to steer them in the right direction.
 
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mcubed

Senior Member
#4
Dec 20, 2013
1,449
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#4
My who life as far back as I remember my parents gave me money every Sabbath to give, I do not remember not giving. I have done the same with my son. When my son was around 5 or so when he starting wanting me to buy him candy or whatever at the store he got chores around the house to do (of course so young put toys in toybox ((age appropriate)). First thing Jacob learned was 10% was tithe and left over was his. He learnt too if he wants something he must work for it. Jacob learned not to spend money foolishly. He started out spending all his money of something stupid when he wanted something that cost a lot he was out of money. He learned not spending on stupid, like candy, he could save for that “cool” toy. It was hard not to just buy for him but as his mother but I knew how else would he learn; not saying I never bought him stuff just because… but you get the point.

Now, my son is in his 20’s and he never not gives. He knows the first 10% is not his. It just isn’t. And he has a better savings account than I do…lol…

I know this is about giving but this is the time to seize the moment and teach them about life.

At 4 years, old you have to buy that toy for “toys for tots”. But let him/her think it’s their money and paying for the toy. What I mean is this: have them help put away something plastic from the dishwasher, tell them first how you will pay them $1.00 or something and pay them. Or whatever your child can do. Important though, when you go buy that toy with your child let them get one (at 4 years old), but buy a better one that he/she will give away. But just explain. I promise they will get it, if it’s something you keep doing.

This is a silly example but you get it. It does work….
 
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ouch98

Guest
#5
#5
Thank you for that. My wife and I drop about 1 small toy a week in toys for tots boxes and give at church. That is a great Idea I'll try, as she likes going to the hardware store where the toys for tots box is. I'll have her begin picking one out and use her piggy bank money to pay for it.
 
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NewWine

Guest
#6
#6
A lot of towns have programs to help a family in need at Christmas. One family to another. You might be able to find a family that has children your child's age?
 
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