At Brooklyn Charter School, our school culture is centered around developing well-rounded future citizens with empathy for others and a sense of personal responsibility for their community. A great way to emphasize this over the holiday break is by having your children give back to those in need. Here are a few ideas that may be appropriate for your family.

Visit a Homeless Shelter With Donations

During the holiday season, one of the most important lessons is to provide for those who are less fortunate. One way your child can do this is by visiting a local homeless shelter with donations of food or clothing. Winter is one of the worst times to lack shelter, as the weather becomes frightfully cold. By providing mittens, gloves, long socks, jackets, and other warm clothing, your family can help people who cannot afford those necessary items.

Spend Time With the Elderly

The holiday season can be one of the loneliest and most depressing times of year for people who do not have close family ties. This is especially true of elderly people living in nursing or retirement homes. Whether your family enjoys caroling, playing board games, making Christmas cards, or performing other activities, you can do all of these things at a local nursing or retirement home. Undoubtedly, the elderly residents’ moods will brighten and your children will learn the joy that comes with bringing joy to others.

Volunteer Your Time

Many organizations are busy during this time of year. Charities are working overtime to meet the needs of less fortunate people, and having extra hands available can make a huge difference. Choose a charitable organization of your choice to help out, bring your children along, and have the administrators tell you where your help is most needed. Whether it’s at a soup kitchen providing meals or sorting gifts for needy children, your child will be able to see the power that comes from a community banding together to meet the needs of all of its members.

We hope you have a wonderful time this holiday season and that you keep the true meaning of citizenship and empathy in mind. If you have any questions about the upcoming semester, contact our office here.