Posted by Justin and Elizabeth West

We just did something new that I think will become a yearly (if not more frequent) tradition - something to instill a sense of selflessness, generosity, and caring in our children – and to help prepare for the coming of Christmas, both in their hearts and in their physical space (AKA the toy room).

Here's what we did:

We started off by talking to our kids about how blessed we are to live in a safe and comfortable place. We talked a bit about those who live in poverty and need every day. We talked about all of the gift giving that happens this time of year and the ultimate Gift that was given in the form of the birth of Jesus - and how we can share a little in his gift of self by giving to others in need.

We shared with our kids that we wanted them to choose items from their toy room to give away to children who do not have as much as they do. We told them that they could "sell" to us (mom and dad) any of the toys they chose, and that they could then take that money to buy new things for others in need. To break it down further:

For each toy they gave away they got some money to spend on a gift for somebody in need. This year, that money will go to purchase new hats, gloves, scarves, etc. for the collection they're taking at my daughter's school. So the more toys they give away (sell to us), the more people they are helping. For each toy they give away they are essentially giving to two people - the person who gets the used toy and the person who gets the new winter gear.

Our kids were pretty anxious about this at first. We told them about the idea a few days ago and the idea seemed a little daunting to them. Then today I read a really nice Christmas story to them - A Child's Christmas at St. Nicholas Circle - that in one part actually speaks of children giving their brand new Christmas gifts to children who have nothing. (There is much more to the story, but this was a moving scene.) We talked about the plan again, went into the toy room, and got to work. We put on Christmas music and looked at literally every toy in the room to see if it was something we should keep, give away, or think about.

After about toy number 10 they were really getting into it and were even discussing among themselves (ages 6, 4, and 2) about whether they should keep a toy or give it away.

When it was all said and done we had a huge bag of toys to give away and $20 to spend on new hats/gloves for the collection.

The kids have been in a great mood this evening ever since this activity. There is no bitter, "I wish we didn't have to get rid of that..." or "I'm going to miss that..." They are excited to help others in multiple ways. At the same time they are learning so much by these actions - generosity, caring, and a healthy attitude about possessions. They are OK with saying goodbye to old toys and are excited to go shopping for others tomorrow!

All in all it was a great way to spend Gaudete (Rejoice!) Sunday. I hope you are having a blessed Advent season of preparation.

Deborah Gorman said:

“So wonderful to hear that you are showing your children the joy of sharing with others. The Scripture says It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Nancy Lister said:

“Great that you shared this new family tradition of parting with toys to help others. We all need to do that with the materials in our lives. Love, Nancy”

Lennie Rhys said:

“What an exemplary idea! I hope you don't mind if I borrow your story to share with young mothers in my Bible study class. Have a blessed Christmas!”