Giving isn't just about presents wrapped in a box. Making coupons lets children know they have many "gifts" to give. This activity can help your child know that everyone in the world, young and old, is a giver and a receiver.

Materials:

• Cut pieces of paper in the shape of a coupon
• Crayons or markers
• Pencil or pen for adults to write children's ideas

Directions:

Your child can write or draw ideas of helpful things to give, such as:

• a hug
• some quiet time on Saturday morning
• help with a household chore
• reading a book to a younger brother or sister

Write on the coupon the words that your child dictates for the person who will receive that coupon.

Talk with your children about giving and receiving gifts. Let your child know it's okay to be disappointed in a gift, but that there are kind ways to thank someone -- even when you aren't thrilled about the gift itself. You might want to make up a story or pretend with your child about a gift that's a disappointment. What could your child say or do that could be kind?

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