Be “Santa Cause” This Christmas

Kids are great. Especially, during the holiday season when young boys and girls start to make a list of the toys for Santa Clause to bring them on Christmas Day. While observing wide-eyed children shouting “I want this” and “I need that” in a toy store made me wonder, “How can we teach our children that Christmas is more than just receiving gifts — but giving gifts to those who are less fortunate.”

A Christmas Eve tradition, for most families, consists of leaving cookies, milk, carrots (for the reindeer), and a letter to Santa Clause before heading to bed. The next morning, the cookies and milk are gone and a present from Santa is strategically placed in front of the Christmas tree. I think this scene is typical in most homes in the U.S. with some variance. But, is there an opportunity to educate our children about giving? I think so.

This season let’s teach our kids about Christmas giving for those who are less fortunate with one simple twist to the Christmas Eve tradition — “Give One. Get One. (GoGo).” The task is simple. Tell your kids that in order to receive a gift from Santa (on top of all the other requirements you’ve agreed upon) you must give a gift to Santa.

Here’s how it works:

1. Place an empty box or bag next to the Christmas tree or Christmas stockings
2. Make a sign “For Santa Clause”
3. Talk to your children about “GoGo.” Every toy they place in the box — they get a new toy from Santa
4. On Christmas Eve, gift wrap the box of used toys and place it next to the other goodies for Santa
5. Once the kids are tucked away, place the box of toys where they won’t see it the next morning (like the trunk of your vehicle)
6. Before the end of the year, drop off the box of used toys to your favorite charity

Benefits:

1. Teach your children about giving in a fun and meaningful way
2. Reduce clutter and old toys around the house
3. Donate to your favorite charity
4. Tax write-off

This year be “Santa Cause” and teach your children about giving. They will become better citizens of the world and make you a proud parent.