Learning Values - Sharing and Giving

Personally, I believe in introducing concepts of giving and sharing from a young age. This helps to build on the childs' character and value set which forms the fundamentals of his/her being. Values and beliefs are fundamentals in guiding us in our way of life, our chain of thoughts, which in turn affect the type of person we will develop into and the kind of life we will lead. An optimistic caring child is more likely to enjoy life's sweetness and whizz through life's challenges compared to a pessimistic spiteful child.

A child who gives and shares happily, not only brings happiness to those around him but is able to derive happiness much more easily for himself/herself. More often than not, this makes him/her a much happier person. So, how do we instill these care and share values into them?

It is important to let the kids know what is sharing and giving. What better ways than to make the child himself/herself give and share! Sharing toys, sharing favourite food, sharing books are some ways we could slowly instill this into them. For a start, I explained to my son the concept of sharing and giving. I use the infamous quote "The more you give, the more you get". I explain to him that it is a blessing to give as being able to give is a blessing in itself. I explain to him that there are many underpriviledged children who wanted to give and share what they have BUT they do not have much to give or share. They do not own toys, they do not have books, some do not even have a home. Pictures and documentaries of the underpriviledge helps reinforce this concept. Next, we talk about actions! Make your child give. Eg : ask your child to share his favourite foods. ask him to give some to yourself. And, do not stop here, take and eat the food that the child have to offer! (I know that because of immense love for their kids, some parents will ask the child to give and when the child actually give, they will reject and ask the child to have the food for themselves!). For a start, you can expect your child to show signs of reluctance in giving and sharing. Practice this for long, it becomes second nature to them! It will come a stage where they will even remind you to share and give! My son was awarded with 2 lollipops and a small packet of japanese crackers from his swim coach this morning. He came home happily and placed his treats aside while he takes his bath. After his bath, he reached out for his treats excitedly. Surprisingly, he brought his treats, give 1 lollipop to me, give 1 lollipop to his papa and ask me to open the japanese crackers for him to eat. Than while he give, he says 'the more you give, the more you get' ;) I again reiterated to him the happiness/blessings with sharing and giving.

Looks like I have in the least made him willing to give and happy to share :)