Jul
23

Volunteering as a Form of Homeschooling

We all strive to teach our children to be the best people they can be, but sometimes, in a world full of consumerism and “stuff”, it can be difficult. That’s why I recommend volunteering as a part of your homeschool curriculum. In fact, summertime is the ideal time to do this!

Not sure where to start? Well, hands on is always best when it comes to kids, so here are a few ideas:

  • Volunteer for weekly duties at the local soup kitchen. Your kids can serve food to people who really are greatful for every spoonful. Or, if you prefer, just make up some bags with a sandwich, drink and a chocolate bar to hand out to the hungry yourselves.
  • Sew some blankets to give to the homeless. Warming Families is a great place to learn more information about this. If a blanket is too big a project, start with hats and scarves to give out come winter.
  • Take a trip. There are thousands of charities around the world that could use a hand and it’s a great way to show your children how others live. You might try Habitat for Humanity or look for orphanages or schools in a country that you are interested in for volunteer opportunities.
  • Write a letter to a sick child. Sending a card or note to a child who is in the hospital is a wonderful way to brighten someone’s day. You can learn more and find sick kids to write to here.
  • Snacks for homeless kids. Take some paper bags and put a treat inside, along with a snack such as a granola bar or packet of cookies. Your children can decorate the bag and then drop them off at the local women’s homeless shelter, to be handed out to children.
  • Walk some dogs. Many animal shelters welcome kids to play with and walk some of the animals. This lets them get out of their cages and get some exercise, without overworking the staff.

Not only do these activities teach compassion and open your children’s eyes to the world around them, it can also promote skills like sewing, crocheting and writing!

What do you do to teach your kids compassion?

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  • BarnabasWay
    Jack,

    That video was exactly what we're talking about. Finding that service is a very fulfilling activity. You also help build community by participating.

    Thanks so much for sharing your site.
  • Volunteer work as a family is very rewarding. For some anecdotal evidence, check out this video — ahamoment.com/pg/moments/view/4578 — about one woman’s “aha moment” experienced while volunteering with her son. I think you’ll find their story very inspirational.

    Thanks,
    jack@ahamoment.com
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