How To Encourage Your Kids to Give a Piece of their Summer Away

Summer is for fun and rest and vacations and adventures! Sometimes there are days that simply seem endless. 

It's easy to get caught up in "what are we going to do?" and "planning our next adventure."

Although there is NOTHING wrong with fun and relaxation, summer is is a great time to encourage kids to think about others. To give some of that extra time away. To give up a piece of their summer. To use their unique talents, gifts and abilities to help someone in need. To put a smile on someone else's face. 

Isn't it amazing how awesome it feels when we invest in someone else?! Did you know its statistically proven that those who volunteer are 42% more likely to be happy than non-volunteers? (source)

Here are some ideas to get started:

:: Visit someone who is lonely and needs some company.

:: Help an elderly neighbor with shopping, cleaning, or yard work.

:: Serve at a local shelter/soup kitchen. 

:: Raise $$ for a charity by having a garage sale, bake sale, lemonade  
   stand or by letting your kids sell any creative items they can make.

:: Take dinner to a family who is struggling, who have experienced a 

    tragedy or have a new baby at home. 

:: Take cards or cookies for someone who needs some encouragement.

The list can go on and on. You and your family know the needs in your particular community and circle of influence. You also know best the ways that you can serve.  

Give a piece of your summer away!!!