Make a Charity Box
Encourage your child to give to the less fortunate.
What you need:
• Hallelujah Handel by Douglas Cowling (optional)
• small shoebox with lid
• tempura paints
• paintbrush
• scissors
• glue
• colorful rhinestones
• stickers, beads, ribbon, etc. as desired
What to do:
1. If available, read Hallelujah Handel with your child. Explain to her the importance of giving to charity. In a traditional Jewish home, the family collects money in a charity (or "tzedakah") box until the end of each year, when they give the money to the charity of their choice. Tell your child that she is going to make a charity box of her very own.
2. Ask your child to paint the shoebox (including the lid) however she likes. Let it dry and then help her spell out her name in rhinestones on the front.
3. Make a slit in the center of the top of the lid. This will be the coin slot.
4. Have your child glue the lid onto the shoebox. Once the glue is dry, she can finish decorating her charity box.
5. Help your child research charity organizations until you find one she likes. (Check with the Better Business Bureau or other organization to ensure it the charity is reputable.)
6. Remind your child to put in coins from time to time. (You can contribute too.) When the box is full, help her donate the money to the charity she has selected.
Learning benefits:
• enhances research skills
• fosters goodwill and good citizenship
• encourages creativity
