Holiday Survival Tip #20

Healthy Holidays Tip #20: 3 Ways to Make Kids Less Greedy

As the old saying says, it is better to give than to receive. But with toys piled high at stores and commercials blaring about year-end deals, it’s easy to lose sight of that this time of the year. That’s why we’ve hit up Sharecare experts for these sneaky ways to  convince your children of the merits of giving.

1. Make giving a habit
Conversations about giving back don’t have to just occur during the holidays, but it is a good time to talk with your kids about what you want the holiday seasons to mean to your family, says Dr. Erik Fisher. “Talk to your kids about what you want them to learn from the holiday, and let them know that you want to focus on what you all have rather then what they will get,” Dr. Fisher says. “Each day leading up to Christmas, go around the dinner table and have everyone say something they feel gratitude for,” he says. In fact, you could do this every night of the year. That idea of being lucky and grateful can be a catalyst for giving to those who are less lucky.

2. Make giving a family affair
Dr. Michele Borba says there are many fun ways families can give to others over the holidays. “Find a needy family your kids can ‘adopt’ for the season. They could then bake an extra batch of cookies for the lonely neighbor next door, adopt an orphan overseas (a portion of their allowance each week goes to that child) or go caroling to a nursing home and add a little joy,” Dr. Borba advises.  “Find just one way to help your children experience the joy of giving.”

3. Change the focus of the holiday
Plan holiday events around together time, instead of around gift opening.  A holiday that doesn’t revolve entirely around presents sends the message that other things are equally important.. “Instead of spending the morning unwrapping presents (and then picking up all that clutter), watch It’s A Wonderful Life, or read A Christmas Carol or sing carols and drink hot chocolate while remembering the things you’re grateful for this year,” Dr. Borba says.

File under: Healthy Holidays