Model Charitable Behavior: Our Kids Are Watching

Updated April 27, 2023

Your Kids Notice Your Acts of Giving

It goes without saying that kids are watching everything their grown-ups do. When parents give (either their time, money, or both!), kids notice. But while actions usually speak louder than words, research shows that kids whose parents give and discuss it with their children, are far more likely to be givers themselves.

Talk To Your Child About Your Acts of Giving Too

Many parents are doing charitable acts already, such as caring for elderly relatives, delivering meals to an infirm friend, running races for charity or writing checks to meaningful causes. Too often, however, their kids don’t know or see how their grown-ups are making change. By being mindful of their own giving and simply narrating these acts to our children, parents can shine light on how easy, yet important, giving can be.

How BT Moms Explain Their Donations to Their Children

Benjamin Talks Co-Founder, Carissa Jordan says…

“When it comes to giving, parents are doing so much already. The key is simply to get kids in on the action, and perhaps even more importantly, have the conversation,” says Carissa.

“In our family, my husband and I feel passionately about supporting scientific research in the medical field. We are lucky enough to have one of the most renowned research institutes, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, right in our own backyard. We make sure to point out the institute whenever we drive by and note how we use our family’s GIVE dollars to support the life-changing work there to find cures for diseases like cancer and ALS.”

Benjamin Talks Co-Founder, Nikki Boulukos says…

“In addition to donating monetarily to causes you are passionate about, it is just as important for your children to know that giving can be in the form of time and service as well,” adds Nikki.

“I have always been very involved with empowering girls through sports across various organizations. One of my most rewarding experiences is volunteering for coaching sessions in underserved communities and bringing along my son, George. I am looking forward to including my girls as they get older, too. Watching your parents volunteer shows kids the powerful impact you can have, not only with your dollars, but also with your time and attention.”

The Takeaway

By shedding light on the charities they support and talking about why they choose to give their time or money to certain organizations, parents are cultivating a culture of giving within their own family and beyond.

The best part? If parents can spend just a little time getting their kids in the habit of giving, the impact is immense. Even one altruistic act can spark real change.

When a child or adult gives their time, items or money, it encourages those around them to do the same, in different ways and to different people. The ripple effects of this phenomenon are inspiring. If that small act of giving then ignites a new wave of generosity, meaningful shifts can happen within communities. The giving glow is real, and little ones can have a big impact, even by starting small.

Can you think of ways that Mom or Dad give back to our community? How would you like to get involved?