Since we are all hunkered down inside for the unforeseeable future, due to COVID-19, we thought we’d offer some ways to help curb our children’s worries and get them to think outside themselves. Serving others can be tricky when we’re stuck at home, but we’ve got a dozen ideas that in no time will help boost everyone’s spirits!
1. Make cards and works of art to send to nursing homes. Not only are residents of nursing homes advised to not leave their homes, but they also can’t see visitors. Their loneliness is at levels they may have never known. Receiving letters and packages in the mail will give them just the boost they need.
2. Go through your pantry and make piles to give food banks. Easy.
3. Go for a walk and pick up trash. Since kids need to get out for fresh air anyway, go on a walk around your neighborhood armed with trash bags.
4. Film a video showcasing your talents and have a designated talent night on social media. Invite all the friends you’re missing to participate too.
5. Tie blankets for children’s homes. Contact your local children’s homes/shelters to see what their need is. Our local home always needs fleece blankets to give to new arrivals. Sadly, even during COVID-19 and other health crisis, kids are still being mistreated and need comfort.
6. Make signs of encouragement and wave them at cars on a busy(ish) corner. This is another good activity when you need sunshine and interaction. A happy message and a smile can go a long way, even to strangers. Make sure to keep a good distance from the road to stay safe!
7. Paint rocks with inspirational messages to hide around your neighborhood or local park. This is a great supplemental art project for your home schooling. If you have a neighborhood Facebook page, let neighbors know that you’ve hidden surprises and have them post when they’ve been found!
8. Pack lunches or meal kits for those in your community who may not be getting enough to eat with school closures. Or order groceries online for seniors in your neighborhood who are too nervous to shop for themselves.
9. Buy gift cards to your favorite restaurants and businesses. Plan on using them once social distancing has eased up. This support could mean the difference in whether a business is able to stay open once the crisis has passed.
10. Write uplifting chalk messages all over your neighborhood…make sure people can read them from their windows!
11. Write cards to friends and family members and send them the old fashioned way! Who doesn’t love to get real mail? It is even more meaningful when family members are cooped up at home.
12. Look for ways to serve each other AT home! Secretly make a sibling’s bed. Help a parent with the dishes. Set the table for dinner. Take the trash outside. Sweep the floor. Do it without being asked! When you’re cooped up at home, little acts of kindness can go a long way in setting a positive tone throughout the day!
