AW: DS and charity

[dr.girlfriend]

While DH and I had some times to ourselves on vacation, one of the things we talked about was how we wanted DS to understand how lucky he is, and instill in him a sense of empathy towards others, etc.

A few weeks ago I talked with DS about how he has a lot of toys, and that some kids don't have any toys, and maybe if he has some toys that are more baby toys he could pick them out to give to kids who don't have any toys. He got kind of upset and seemed to think I was taking away all his toys, so I dropped it, figuring I'd bring it up again later.

Tonight, we were putting DS to sleep, and he randomly said, "Some kids don't have any toys." I was like, "Yes, that's true." He said, "Maybe I could pick some of my toys that are baby toys and not big boy toys and give them to someone who doesn't have any toys."

I was like: I couldn't believe he had remembered our conversation, and I guess thought about it.

And then he ruined it a bit by saying, "And then I'll need more big boy toys and can get a Chuggington train." But still -- props for trying, little man!

[Deleted]

Nice!

We are working on this as well.

[vanillacourage]

I love it when selective hearing/memory works in mom's favor.

[GailGoldie]

it's an ongoing conversation we have with our boys. Griffin who is 5, understands a lot... we say prayers ever night before bed and thank God for things we did that day, had, etc. And always end with thanking Him for bringing us all home safe and healthy together... because that is the most important thing. Griffin knows that it doesn't matter if we don't have toys, clothes, etc - having each other is what matters most... of course, as much as a 5yo can understand that

if it's something you discuss often, your child will have it as part of him. If he sees you doing good for others, he'll learn to do that all the time, too.

[belovedbride07]

That is so cute! :Y:

[fortmyersbride]

Aww, what a good kid!

We instituted a tradition when DS turned 3 that he has to walk through the playroom with me before b-days and Christmas and pick out some items to donate. Then he goes with me to drop them off. The first time we did it he freaked out a bit a week later when he realized the toys were "really gone" but then we talked about how they went to kids without other toys and he has been ok with it ever since.

[glitzy07]

I've done this with my SS quite a few times and he helps me pack up boxes and drop them at the Goodwill. Now he'll come up to me with a toy when he doesn't want it anymore and say, "Can we give this to a different kid who wants it? I don't need it anymore."

So cute.

[noodleskooze]

Aug 25, 2012 17:25:12 GMT -5 fortmyersbride said:

We instituted a tradition when DS turned 3 that he has to walk through the playroom with me before b-days and Christmas and pick out some items to donate. Then he goes with me to drop them off.

I love this idea!