First and foremost, I’ve realized the importance of leading by example. Kids, especially, learn so much through observation. If they see us giving our time, energy, or resources to help others, they’re more likely to want to do the same. In our family, we make a point of talking about what giving back means long before we take action. These conversations help us align on what we care about as a family. For example, one year, we realized we all had a soft spot for animals. That led us to spend a weekend volunteering at a local animal shelter, walking dogs and cleaning up kennels. It was a simple gesture, but it meant so much to us—and the shelter staff.
November is also a great time to involve kids in understanding the importance of gratitude. One of our favorite family traditions is creating a “gratitude jar.” Each day in November, we all add one thing we’re grateful for to the jar. By the end of the month, we read through everything together. This might not seem like an act of giving back at first glance, but it sets the tone for the season. Understanding what we’re thankful for often sparks conversations about how we can help others who may not have the same privileges. For example, after reflecting on how lucky we are to have warm coats, we decided to host a coat drive in our neighborhood one year. The kids helped organize everything, from writing flyers to sorting the donations—and they loved every second of it.
Another idea that has worked well for us is making giving back tangible. I’ve found that when kids can see the direct impact of their actions, the experience becomes even more meaningful. One year, we participated in a food drive for a local pantry ahead of Thanksgiving. Instead of simply donating canned goods from our pantry, we went to the grocery store as a family. Each of us had a budget and picked out items we thought another family would enjoy during the holiday season. My kids were surprisingly thoughtful—choosing things like pumpkin pie filling or stuffing mix, saying, “Everyone should get to enjoy the same things we do on Thanksgiving.” That small act made a big impression on them, and it’s now something we look forward to doing every year.
For families who enjoy crafting or being creative together, giving back can take on a personal touch. Handwritten cards or handmade crafts can brighten someone’s day in ways we might not even realize. One November, we decided to make thank-you cards for local healthcare workers. The kids decorated them with drawings, and we wrote heartfelt messages inside. Dropping them off at the hospital was such a rewarding experience, especially when we saw how much those cards meant to the staff.
Time is another valuable gift—and often the easiest to give. I know life gets busy, especially during the holiday season, but setting aside just an hour or two can make a world of difference. As a family, we’ve made it a habit to volunteer together at least once in November. Whether it’s serving meals at a soup kitchen, participating in a park cleanup, or helping out at a community event, these experiences not only allow us to give back but also bring us closer together. It’s incredible how much bonding happens when you’re working toward a common goal alongside the people you love most.
For those who prefer to give financially, November is also an ideal time to teach kids about charitable donations. We’ve started a tradition where we sit down as a family and pick one or two causes to support. The kids love researching organizations and learning about the different ways they help people or the planet. To make it more personal, we often encourage the kids to contribute a small portion of their own allowance or savings. Seeing them take ownership of their contributions is one of the most rewarding parts of this process.
If you’re looking for ways to encourage giving back as a family this November, my advice is to start small and build from there. Even the simplest acts of kindness—like baking cookies for a neighbor or writing a thank-you note—can make a big difference. The most important thing is to make it a shared experience. Not only will you be helping others, but you’ll also be creating memories and traditions that your family will cherish for years to come.
So, as November rolls around, why not take a moment to reflect on all that you’re grateful for—and how you can pay it forward as a family? Trust me, the joy and connection you’ll feel are worth every second. Giving back isn’t just about what you do for others; it’s about the lessons you learn, the love you share, and the legacy you build together. Let’s make this season one to remember!