Holiday Service Project Ideas
Getting into the holiday spirit doesn’t just mean Christmas decorations and cool gifts. A big part of the holiday season is giving back. Studies show that if your child volunteers, she will experience positive effects, including an improvement in her grades, a better attitude towards learning, and a buildup of her self-esteem. Nurture your child’s empathy and bond over these fun service ideas from Lakeland Catholic schools!
A Cleanout
Donating is the most popular, and perhaps the most fulfilling, form of service. This time of the year is best to implement the out-with-the-old mentality and start fresh. As they say, your trash is someone else’s treasure. Your child can go through their clothes and toys and decide what they would like to pay forward to a homeless shelter or charitable organization. In the process, explain to your child that some parents can’t afford to buy gifts for their family. By talking about it’ll teach her that it’s the thought that counts and there is more to the world than presents.
Adopt a Soldier
Sign up to be a Soldier’s Angel, a program that allows your child to adopt a member of the military. This is a great teaching opportunity to show your child the sacrifices that those in the service make for our county. Go the extra mile and send a care package for the holidays!
Throw a Party
Throw a party! This might sound odd, but it’s not your typical party. At your holiday gathering, request that your guests bring an item to donate. Items can include toothbrushes, shoes, or toys. The Joy of Sox, for example, is an organization that collects new, unused socks for homeless people. Your party can be a collection site, which is called “sock drawers.” Then, you can mail the socks to the organization!
Christmas Carol at Nursing Homes
Break out the merriest clothes and your singing voices, it’s time to go caroling! Bring joy to the residents at nursing homes by having your child and her friends sing for them. Bring cards, draw pictures, and pass them out to spread the holiday cheer!
Emergency Room Kits
Unfortunately, families suffer tragedies and emergencies during the holidays, just like every other day. Hospital staff work around the clock and sometimes don’t get breaks. Your family can put together kits for people in the waiting area or for the staff members. Include items that will come in handy during long waits. This can include gum, puzzles, snacks, and toothbrushes. Handwrite special notes that say your family is praying for them and that God loves them. You don’t want to disturb the flow in the emergency room, so touch base with the staff ahead of time to find out when the best time is to pass the packages out.
At Lakeland Catholic schools, we foster an atmosphere of care and an environment of high expectations and effective discipline. To learn more about what makes us different, contact the Office of Catholic Schools at the Diocese of Orlando by dialing 407-246-4800.