I can feel good when I help others, show kindness, and share what I have.

Giving helps children develop empathy, a sense of purpose, and connection to others. From small acts of kindness to contributing in their home, school, or community, giving builds self-esteem and strengthens relationships.

This guide aligns with the **Curriculum for Wales – Health and Wellbeing AoLE**, **Welsh Government’s Parenting and Family Support Guidance**, **Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB)** principles of compassionate care, and **UK Government citizenship resources**. The following activities promote kindness, cooperation, and contribution across two age groups: 4–7 and 8–11.

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Parent–Child Giving Boosters

Giving Together Time

Do something helpful as a team: tidy a shared space, cook for a neighbour, or make cards for a care home. Model cooperation and kindness.

Gratitude Conversations

Over dinner or before bed, ask: What did someone do today that made you feel good? What did you do for someone else? Share your own reflections too.

Family Kindness Calendar

Make a monthly calendar with daily giving prompts: 'help with chores', 'compliment someone', 'recycle something', 'donate a book'. Tick each off together.

Charity Sorting

Let children help sort toys, clothes, or books they’ve outgrown to donate. Talk about how their gift might help someone else.

Positive Pebbles

Paint stones with uplifting words or drawings and leave them in parks or on paths. A simple surprise can brighten someone’s day.

Kindness Reflection Jar

Place a jar somewhere visible and encourage everyone in the family to write a kindness moment on a slip of paper – something they gave or received. Open the jar together at the end of the month to read, celebrate and reflect on the power of giving.

Helpful Resources and Guidance

  • Curriculum for Wales – Health and Wellbeing: https://hwb.gov.wales/curriculum-for-wales/health-and-well-being/
  • Welsh Government – Parenting. Give it Time: https://www.gov.wales/parenting-give-it-time
  • BCUHB – Children’s Emotional Wellbeing: https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/health-advice/emotional-wellbeing/
  • Volunteering Wales – Opportunities for Young People: https://volunteering-wales.net/
  • UK Government – Citizenship and Volunteering: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/citizenship-teaching-resources

Five Ways to Wellbeing