Volunteering with Kids

Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart. ~Elizabeth Andrew

Teaching young kids about volunteering can be tricky.
The thought of taking a 4-year-old to the food pantry would likely make even the most seasoned mother panic.
So, how do you instill those kinds of values into your child?
Kristen Horton, Cornerstone Assistance Network Director of Volunteers, discussed volunteer opportunities with our Mops group today.

click here to learn more about Cornerstone Assistance Network

"I think volunteering with your preschooler starts with age-appropriate conversations," Horton said.

• initiate the conversation
• find a volunteer opportunity that relates to them
• bring it down to their level - don't scare them
• instill compassion
• look for opportunities to bless children the same age as your children

Ideas on how to volunteer with your child

Reverse Trick-or-Treating:

Horton suggested going to a nursing home with your children and passing out cookies or treats to the elderly.
Making friendly conversation with those at the nursing home and bring a treat would likely make their day, Horton said. It would also, instill compassion, she said.

"I think a key to volunteering with preschoolers is mentoring and modeling at home," Horton said.

Thanksgiving

Put together food baskets to donate with your children.
"Let them see the meal come together," Horton said. "Let them go grocery shopping with you."

Christmas

Operation Christmas Child (we are putting boxes together at the next meeting, Nov. 14, click here to visit the website.) * Let your child help you shop for your child. If they're old enough, let them watch the video on the site. *Adopt a child their age, to help them feel connected.

Other ways

• Clean out the toy box. Let them pick out toys to donate, Horton said.
• Have a Peanut Butter and Jelly Drive at their preschool and then donate the items to a food bank.
• Buy large bags of rice and beans and then have your children help separate them into smaller portions.
• Prepare care packages for the homeless (toothbrush, sanitary items, non-perishable foods) and keep them handy in your vehicle.

"It's simple and makes your child aware of what's going on in the world," Horton said.

Cornerstone Assistance Network also holds quarterly workshops and could always use help with child care, Horton said.
Bringing your child to help out in that atmosphere could help your child understand, she said.

"It's all about connecting those items for them," she said.
 

-For more information on how to volunteer with with Cornerstone Assistance Network, email Horton at khorton@canetwork.org or call her at 817-632-6001.

Next meeting on Nov. 14

Along with putting together our Operation Christmas Child boxes, we will be making holiday goodies. Bring pictures to make photo coasters!