subject: Ideas To Make Your Thanksgiving Special [print this page] Thanksgiving is here with us again; a special time to show gratitude for the many blessings and good fortune we enjoy and also find time for the less fortunate amidst us. Make this holiday special by involving family members in volunteer work, giving and spreading the joy and kindness. Below are ideas to help teach children goodwill and graciousness, these ideas can be used all year round.
Convey gratitude in your decorations
Prepare your home for thanksgiving by decorating with words of gratitude. If you're inviting people for a meal then write the name of each guest on the Thanksgiving cards, with each family member think of reasons to be grateful for each guest like a good trait he/she possesses, then write that on the card. In the course of the meal ask everyone at the table to say at least two things they're grateful for.
Make a donation to your favorite charity
There plenty of items in your home that are no longer used or no longer needed but are still valuable. Collect such items be they clothing, electronics, furniture or any other item you feel can help someone and deliver them to a charity of your choosing. If you have no items then you can alternatively make a donation in cash, don't worry about the amount. Attach a small note to your donation if it's a check and in it give a reason why you've selected the charity and why you support the cause.
Visit a hospital.
Hospitals are very serene environment and many patients find it lonely especially during the holidays and weekends. Reserve some time this holiday to visit hospitals and spent time with people not able to be at home. Children hospitals are particularly good, here you can bring along some gifts such as stuffed animals or small treats for children. Ask your kids to select a gift item they think a kid like them will like.
Mind the soldiers serving overseas
Remember the soldiers serving overseas by sending them a holiday healthcare package. Items like toothbrushes, soap, toiletries, and razors are great for guys in the army. You can also include edibles like cookies, Crisps, canned foods, and gums, small games like Sudoku, crossword puzzle are also good for soldiers during their free time.
Volunteer at an animal shelter.
It's important to keep family and friends in mind during the holidays, but don't forget the animals! Hundreds of homeless animals need your time, love, and hugs. Take your son or daughter to an animal shelter to volunteer for a day, or sign up to volunteer once a week to spread the love throughout the year. And if you have the resources and time, adopt one of your own!
Share with a needy family
Make this holiday special by inviting a needy family over for thanksgiving dinner. You can also make an offering of a complete Thanksgiving dinner to a needy family through an outreach organization or a church. Enlist the help of your children in drafting the shopping list.
