According to a recent survey, the habit and practice of giving charity among Generation X and millennials have been on a decline. On average, baby boomers gave the most, followed by Gen X and then millennials. The slow decrease in the amount of money donated in the new generation begs the question, is generosity lost in the coming age? Furthermore, how can we encourage the young lot to develop a sense of care, empathy, and action so that they inherently feel the need to help others?Â
In this blog, we will explore all of this and more as we discuss how to foster compassion and the spirit of giving among the new generation.
Why Teach Generosity?
Generosity is a quality that goes beyond donating or sharing material possessions. It is a way of life and a mindset that fosters empathy and compassion. By cultivating a sense of generosity in children, we not only sow the seeds of essential character traits but also prompt them to make positive choices for the betterment of individuals and society at large.Â
For example, in Islam, Muslims are required to pay zakat if they meet the nisab value, i.e. wealth threshold that dictates whether a Muslim is eligible to pay zakat or not. In the modern era, the process of calculating and giving Zakat has become easier as you can now choose to use a Zakat calculator. For example, Transparent Hands offers an easy-to-use Zakat Calculator. Zakat and other forms of donations in Islam instill a sense of giving in the younger generation.Â
Research shows that apart from immediate actions, the benefits of generosity have a much larger impact on the life of the giver. When inculcated at a young age, having a charitable or giving nature makes children more inclined to exhibit higher levels of empathy, develop stronger social skills, and even experience increased levels of satisfaction and happiness in life. When they grow up, they have a greater responsibility and deeper appreciation for the other’s needs.
Additionally, it also promotes ethical decision-making and helps them develop a stronger moral compass. Children become more mindful of their choices and are more prone to making empathetic decisions when they understand the impact of their actions on others. Kindness is the root of generosity, and by teaching children its lesson, we can provide them with the tools to navigate the world successfully and uplift others when needed.Â
Start Early
Cultivating desired behavior starts at a young age. As caregivers and parents, you have the opportunity to plant the seeds of generosity from early stages and nurture them as your child grows. For starters, incorporating small practices and leading by example is the perfect way to have them passively pick up on your altruistic traits. You can even encourage your kids to join you in making small yet impactful donations on online platforms like Transparent Hands.Â
Engage in Open Dialogue
To instill a virtue, any virtue in someone, regardless of age, it is important for them to first understand it. You can start by talking to children about why giving to others is important. Have them understand how God sometimes uses us as a source to help the less fortunate. Use very simple language and encourage them to ask questions. Remember, this doesn’t have to be a lecture, but rather a discussion.
Demonstrate Generosity
Children learn by observing others’ behavior around them and replicating it. As an influential figure in their lives, you can demonstrate generous behavior. Include them in your philanthropic endeavors or charity drives such as Ramadan donations. Whether it is a simple act of showing kindness to a stranger, volunteering for a cause they are passionate about, or even donating, leading by example can propagate altruism in them.
Foster Hands-on Experience
At an adequate age, having them engage hands-on with charitable activities can be a fruitful way to encourage desired behavior. No, it doesn’t necessarily have to be an arduous activity, and yes, it can start from something very simple and executable such as setting up a lemonade stand to raise funds for a cause. They can also accompany an adult and volunteer at a shelter, or local charity or help them organize a donation drive. The result would be them witnessing the positive impact their efforts can make.
To get the young ones inspired and mobilized, here are a few ideas that you can engage them in:
Nursing Homes
The elderly love children and the peaceful and tranquil environment of a nursing home can be a great introduction for children in caring for others. Spending short amounts of time at your local nursing home can develop a sense of care in your child.Â
Volunteering at Local Charity
Most local charities offer different programs that children and teenagers can work in. These range from assisting with event organizations, sorting through donations, or even administrative tasks.Â
Donation Pick Up
Another child and teen-friendly activity is to arrange a donation drive. Children can go around the local community and collect gently used items such as toys, clothes, shoes, bags, and such. By doing so they can first-hand experience the joy of helping others and giving back.
Community Projects
Engaging children in community service projects, such as clean-up drives, gardening, and beautifying spaces can effectively address community needs and inculcate a sense of social responsibility.Â
By engaging in such small-scale activities that play a small role in the grander scheme of things, adults can teach their children kindness, care, and empathy. Research shows that people who regularly indulge in donating have better health, lowered stress levels, and are overall happier. As any parent would want their child to be healthy and happy, what better way to do it than to benefit others in the process, too? Exposing them to philanthropy at a young age can set the wheels for them to become responsible and caring adults in motion. A win-win situation for you, the children, and those who will directly benefit from their efforts!