How GenKind can teach the joy of giving (back) this Christmas
There is no better sight for a child than a twinkly Christmas tree overflowing with gifts. The anticipation of opening that stocking and finally getting your hands on the toy you have been hoping for all year. Priceless (for the kids and the parents).
These days however, it is rarely one or two great presents that have been coveted all year. The wishlists seem to grow exponentially, as the season seeps earlier and earlier into November! As a parent it can be hard to know where to draw the line. We want to raise kind kids, who are grateful and generous, but we don’t want deny them the magic of Christmas gifts.
This is where GenKind can help. Gift a donation to a kid-friendly cause and show kids that giving-back is fun and rewarding, as well as planet-saving.
GenKind is a great addition to the physical gifts under the tree, blending the excitement of gift-giving with the values of generosity and sustainability. Alongside traditional presents, parents can give their own children or friends a GenKind donation - which encourages children to support planet-saving causes. It’s a simple, powerful way to teach children that giving can be just as rewarding as receiving.
Picture this: a beautifully wrapped GenKind envelope under the tree, containing a voucher which explains how they can choose to save an endangered animal, protect our oceans, or help other kids become scientists. It’s a tangible way for kids to see the impact of their generosity. Plus they will receive a certificate and magazine to recognise their kindness.
GenKind is not about replacing Christmas fun but about adding depth to it. It helps parents introduce the idea that Christmas is not just about “me” but also about “we.”
How to Incorporate GenKind into Your Christmas
Make it Personal
Use the donation and the cause that they pick to have engaging and interactive chats about the things that they are (or could be) passionate about. Whether it’s learning more about sea turtles, or understanding the threats to Aussie wildlife, or organising a beach clean-up, GenKind has information and resources to fuel their personal passions.
2. Celebrate Their Generosity
Treat their GenKind donation as a big event. Place the envelope under the tree, and make opening it part of your Christmas morning traditions. Celebrate their contribution with as much enthusiasm as you would any other gift.
2. Pair It With a Related Gift
If your child chooses to support wildlife conservation, consider pairing their GenKind donation with a stuffed animal representing the species they’ve helped protect. It reinforces the connection between their generosity and the real-world impact.
The Benefits of Teaching Kids to Give
Teaching children to give back doesn’t just make them better people—it also benefits them. Studies show that generosity and acts of kindness boost happiness, reduce stress, and foster a sense of purpose.
By integrating giving into your family’s holiday traditions, you’re helping your child develop:
• Empathy: Understanding the needs of others.
• Responsibility: Recognising their ability to make a difference.
• Gratitude: Appreciating what they have while helping others.
Finding Joy in Giving Back
Parent-guilt is real challenge at Christmas. You get it if you buy too much, and you get it if you buy too little! It can feel like you just can’t win.
This Christmas, let’s make room under the tree for more than just toys. Let’s make space for gratitude, generosity, and joy. And with GenKind as part of your celebration, you’re not just giving a gift—you’re planting the seeds of kindness and compassion for years to come.
Let’s give our children a Christmas they’ll not only enjoy but also learn from—a Christmas that’s as much about giving as it is about receiving.