Thanksgiving is practically here, and for a lot of us, that means food, family, maybe a little football, and hopefully a whole lot of gratitude. And while I love the idea of giving thanks (as I’m sure you do, too), lately, I’ve been thinking about how Thanksgiving can be the perfect catalyst for something even bigger: giving back.

Most of us are already doing a great job showing our kids how to be grateful. But what if we used this season to take it a step further, helping them understand that gratitude and generosity go hand in hand? That thankfulness isn’t just about feeling lucky—it’s about sharing those blessings with others.

Let´s dive into a few ideas to spark those “giving back” conversations with our kids, and maybe even start a few family traditions along the way. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in some thoughts on how Genie fits in and can support you all along the journey!

Make Giving Back a Family Affair

Kids learn best by example. When they see us giving back—whether it’s volunteering, donating, or simply lending a hand—they realize that helping others is just a normal, everyday part of life. A great way to start might be to volunteer as a family. Maybe try checking if your local food pantry or community center has family-friendly activities or food drives during the holiday season.

You could even get the kids excited and more involved in the process by letting them choose where to give back. Maybe they’re passionate about animals and want to donate supplies to a local shelter. Or they might love the idea of helping other kids and want to create little care packages with toys and snacks. Letting them make the call can really spark that personal connection and a sense of ownership. And as we’re finding more of these amazing opportunities, Genie can help us track schedules, share event info with family, and even help organize any tasks.

Start a Family Kindness Jar

This one is a big hit with kids and easy to pull off! Every time someone in the family does something kind, writes a nice note, or helps someone out, write it on a little slip of paper and drop it in the “Kindness Jar.” By the end of the week, it will hopefully be overflowing with little acts of love and kindness. Then, on Friday of each week (or whatever day works for you!), we read them aloud together.

This weekly tradition isn’t just about patting ourselves on the back. It’s a reminder that giving doesn’t have to be grand—it can be those small, everyday moments that add up. Plus, it’s just plain fun to hear what everyone has been up to during the busy week! And if you’re on the hunt for quick, easy ideas or reminders to keep the kindness rolling as the weeks go by, you know Genie has you covered.

Get Creative with Donation Drives

Sometimes, giving back just takes a little imagination. One thought is to try a “toy and book swap” where the kids sort through things they no longer play with and donate them. (Admittedly, you may have to sweeten the deal by suggesting a hot chocolate party afterward, but after letting go of what they no longer use or need and seeing how good it can feel to help those less fortunate, your kids will understand that can be its own reward, too.) No future bribery needed!

There are so many ways to approach this, like holding a mini-drive at home where the kids invite friends to donate with them—whatever gets your kids enthused and onboard. You’ll be amazed at how proud kids feel once they see they’re making a tangible difference—and it’s just another great way to weave gratitude into our routines. 

‍Craft Some Gratitude Gifts

Sometimes it’s hard to know how to help, especially for little ones who don’t always grasp the “why” behind it. But one thing most kids love is crafting. At least I know that’s certainly the case in my house! Try setting aside a family afternoon to make “gratitude gifts” like homemade cards, friendship bracelets, or even baked treats to give out in your community.

The kids can hand them to friends, family, neighbors, or even healthcare workers or firefighters if you arrange it in advance. The key here is the experience of creating and giving without expecting anything in return. And when you’re ready to gather ideas or plan this special crafting day, Genie’s got tons of suggestions and reminders to help support you and keep the day organized.

Create a “Thankful Tree”

This one is easy and makes a beautiful dinner table or kitchen counter centerpiece. Gather some branches, stick them in a vase, and hang paper “leaves” from them. Each leaf can have something written on it that your family is thankful for. (Ours once said they were thankful for “snacks and pajamas,” which honestly, me too.)

Then, you can even add a twist to level up! Each time a new “thankful leaf” is added, brainstorm together one small act of kindness related to it. For example, if someone writes that they’re grateful for their friends, they could make a card or small gift for a particular friend. If they’re thankful for food, they might help you cook a favorite meal or treat for a neighbor. It’s a fun, easy, and visual way for kids to connect gratitude with giving.

A Gift that Goes Beyond Any Season

As parents, we know that helping our kids develop empathy, gratitude, and a spirit of generosity is one of the best gifts we can give them—and it’s something we get to learn alongside them. So this Thanksgiving, let’s embrace the chance to show our kids that giving back isn’t just something we do; it’s a way of living.

Here’s to a season of gratitude, giving, and (hopefully?) a few less “are we there yet” queries on the holiday road trips. Happy Thanksgiving, from my family to yours.

Until next time,
— Darius

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