Encourage Generosity
Sep 18 '00 (Updated Dec 13 '00)
With the holiday season fast approaching, my mind wanders through thoughts of upcoming family parties, school functions, the consumption of fattening foods, and festive decorations. While I view all of this with genuine anticipation, I also find myself contemplating ways I can encourage generosity among my sixth grade students this year. Each year, classes in my school are asked to participate in a community service project of some type; my team usually chooses to do something around the Christmas season.
For the past two years, our students have sold candy canes at lunch. Simple idea.. very lucrative profits. Each child is encouraged to donate one 10-12 count box of candy canes (total cost: $.88/box). We are then able to sell each candy cane (with flavors varying from traditional to pina colada to bubble gum) for a quarter. High markup? Yes. But sixth graders with pocket change would buy an ocean-front condominium in Arkansas if it was for sale at lunch. Last year alone we cleared over $300.00. We then donated our total profits to our city's toy and clothing drive held each December.
Each student takes part in some way during our fund-raising activity. Some make signs, some do loudspeaker announcements, some bring pennies for me to buy their box to donate because they're unable to visit the store, others just buy lots of candy canes since they can eat them in my classroom during this special time. But the most satisfying aspect of our project is the realization that these students understand our purpose: to help those in need. From the moment the project is explained and plans are made, there is excitement on every face.
It's very encouraging and greatly fulfilling to see children join together for a common goal. It's even more exciting to see them get fired up about it. And when we make that large monetary donation at the end of the week, they cheer and yell and pat each other on the back. Some tend to shed a few tears, too.. but they wouldn't want you to know that.
These children initially learn about generosity and helping others from someone at home. I applaud parents who educate their children to believe they can make a difference in someone's life. Make them aware that it doesn't matter how much you have or don't have.. what matters is that you share what you can with those who need it more than you do. It's an invaluable lesson that will stay with them throughout their lives. Be proud of your kids. I sure am. They can do some really great things.
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Epinions.com ID:
Teach2755
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Member: Lisa
Location: Jonesboro, AR
Reviews written: 95
Trusted by: 54 members
About Me:
I'm a half-crazed sixth grade teacher who's ready for summer. Enough said. :)
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