Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Minneapolis, MN

This year M is a little too young to really get into helping others, but I'm still doing it in her name.  She already is very good at sharing her things, and we're going to try to encourage that whenever we can.

The plan is to adopt a family or child for her to help shop for.  I think one of the best way for kids to learn charity is to make a personal connection.  To know that someone else like them is in need and that they can help teaches compassion.  Here are a few of my favorite ways to help kids connect. 

Finding the right family - I adopt a family from St. Anne's place, a local shelter for women and children.  The families for adoption vary in age and size.  They are usually in permanent housing but still struggling with finding jobs.  You can work with the case workers and find a family that fits when you can afford (I usually stay small), or that have kids the same age as yours. 

Speaking of age - Kids are really good at helping out when picking out things for kids the same age or younger than them.  Older can be a little harder for kids to grasp.  However, if that is your only option, have kids think about what they would like when they are older. 

Add something personal - Even if it is a card or something else small, adding a personal touch is a great way to connect.  If it is an option