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Research has shown that a child's self-esteem is elevated when they do something for the good of others.  Finding opportunities for your child to volunteer their time can help them gain a deeper understanding of the needs of others.  Research also shows that children who volunteer may have better critical thinking and problem solving skills. 

Finding time to volunteer can also be a fun family project and a way to reconnect with your kids while helping your community and setting a good example.

What will your kids learn from becoming a volunteer? 

1.  A sense of responsibility
   
2. The knowledge that one person can make a difference.
   
3. The benefit of sacrifice
   
4. Tolerance
   
5. Job skills

Becoming a volunteer does not have to take up all of your or your child’s time.  Look for creative ways to be helpful.  Here are some simple ways to volunteer:

1. Cut out coupons for groceries and donate them to food banks.
   
2. Have a party where all the kids stuff a teddy bear and donate the bears to a pediatric hospital.
   
3. Volunteer at an animal shelter to walk and care for animals.
   

For more information on this subject check out these websites:
           
    http://kidshealth.org/
    http://artistshelpingchildren.org
    http://www.kidsturncentral.com/holidays/