Expose your child to the importance of Christmas charity

The true meaning of Christmas giving can sometimes be lost amid the flurry of wrapping paper, wish lists to Santa and baking cookies. But it's important that your child's idea of generosity extends beyond begrudgingly getting his "icky sister" a silly Barbie.

Progressive giving

If you're a modern family, your kids are online more often than not. Encourage them to rise to the challenge of giving through just a few clicks of the mouse. The Hunger Site offers a button on its homepage – one click and your child has donated 1.1 cups of food to the hungry. Make it part of your kids' daily routine during Christmas -- and beyond.

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Let your angel earn her wings

Angel trees have become synonymous with Christmas charity. Often, churches put up angel trees where you can select a person at random and fulfill their Christmas wish. You can also adopt an angel through the Salvation Army or Prison Fellowship. Go shopping with your child to select your angel's request -- say, a Star Wars backpack -- and truly reinforce the idea of Christmas charity by asking your child to suggest something extra to add to the purchase, like LEGO mini figures of Yoda and Anakin, or fun school supplies.

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Give before receiving

Your child will receive many wonderful Christmas gifts -- encourage them to make room for the new things they're fortunate enough to have by donating the clothing or toys they no longer want or need… and that could make another child very happy. Groups like Purple Heart do door-to-door pick-ups, or find an organization in your area that will be collecting in your neighborhood.

Salute the brave

If your children aren't already aware of the daily sacrifices the members of our military make, instill in them patriotism right along with Christmas charity. Give 2 the Troops collects Christmas cards, holiday books and movies, decorations, spiritual items and more, compiling care packages for members of the United States Armed Forces. Certainly your child would find it hard to imagine a Christmas away from home and family – this is one sure way to put life into perspective and increase their compassion for others.

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Reach out to another generation

Visit a local nursing home or hospital to spread the cheer and bring along cookies or fruit. Many residents of nursing homes don't have regular visitors -- or any visitors at all. You may want to call ahead first to determine if there are any dietary restrictions for the residents. Butchances are, they'll be thrilled to have the company of energetic, giving children in their midst -- and, chances are, your child may just adopt themselves another grandparent or two.

More articles about Christmas charity

6 Ways to teach kids to give at Christmas
Holiday and Christmas cards for a great cause
Selecting volunteer projects for your child