When kids clean their rooms, don’t throw away usable items. Teach them to clean up for charity instead. We all know giving cast off clothing to the less fortunate is a better solution. How about taking charity one step further? You might not immediately think of these uses for kids outgrown clothing and other discarded items. Kids will be more likely to let go of things they don’t need, if they know they’ll be loved.
Too many stuffed animals? Why not encourage kids to clean them up? They can give them to children in hospitals or homeless shelters. Hospitalized or homeless children feel more secure with something soft and cuddly to love. You can do the same with other toys. Some homeless children may have had to give up their favorite toys. Having something new to play with might ease the loss. Consider letting your kids hand out their loved toys personally.
Was your daughter a flower girl? That pretty little white dress might be the perfect fit for someone’s First Communion. Donate kids white dresses to your local Catholic Church so another little girl can attend her religious ceremony in style. Of course, you could also send them off to the thrift store, but this way, the dress doesn’t cost parents a dime. This is a fantastic way to teach kids about other religions or their own.
Graduates saving caps and gowns? Some kids can’t afford them. Why not get together with other parents? Turn them in to the school for next year’s struggling graduates. Surely there’s a spare closet at the school. Now when kids say their parents can’t swing the cost of a cap and gown, school staff can let them try on the spares. Teach kids to clean up for charity by talking to them about something being admired, rather than put to good use.
Preschool books galore? Donate them to your local children’s hospital or clinic. Waiting rooms can always use items to entertain kids. You might also consider giving them to a local school library. Schools struggle to make ends meet just like we do. What better way to pay back public schools for your child’s free education?
You can’t save all those baby clothes. It’s true they hold precious memories. Talk to kids about what each tiny outfit means to you. Take pictures for posterity. Make a scrapbook if you like. Pick out one or two special outfits you just can’t part with for sentimental reasons. Give the rest to a struggling young parent or charitable organization. .
Done having children? Don’t forget to donate items like strollers, cribs, changing tables and other baby equipment. There are so many parents who can’t afford basic baby gear. Ask around in your circle of friends. Changes are someone is expecting a surprise bundle of joy, even though their financial circumstances are questionable. Why not help them out? You’ll teach kids through example in the process.
Outgrown prom dresses hanging in your teen’s closet? Why not help a less fortunate teen who can’t afford one? Talk to other parents too. Ask for the school’s permission to hold a free event just before prom. Disadvantaged teens can pick out a beautiful dress for prom. Better yet, obtain a confidential list of teens in need and contact parents privately.
Get kids in the habit of thinking of others. Let’s not have another disposable generation. Every few months have your kids clean their room with charity in mind. Do the same with your own possessions. Kids might even surprise you with charitable suggestions of their own. At the very least, you’ll be teaching them the good habit of wasting less and giving more.
More from Jaipi:
Five Smart Habits of Successful Kids
Parents: Be Your Own Home Environmental Protection Agency
Kids Growing Up Too Fast? Why Let Them?