The festive season is here. The lights are going up, lunch menus are being planned and, all over South Australia, children are getting ready for the arrival of Father Christmas, with high expectations of waking up to piles of gifts under the tree.
While there’s a big focus at this time of year on consuming, it’s also the perfect time to help children discover that giving to others can bring just as much happiness as receiving and that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in our community.
Why giving matters
In a world where children are surrounded by messages about getting more – more toys, more tech, more of whatever the latest schoolyard trend might be, teaching them the power of giving helps them to see the world differently.
It encourages empathy, builds gratitude and shows them that even small actions can make a big difference to someone else.
“At UnitingSA, we see every day how small gestures of kindness can have a big impact,” says UnitingSA CEO, Jenny Hall. “When families give together, they’re showing children that they have the power to brighten someone’s day and that’s a feeling that stays with them.”
A tough Christmas for many families
While many of us are busy decorating trees and planning family lunches, the reality is that Christmas can be a really hard time for others. The rising cost of living means more families are struggling to afford the basics, let alone gifts or a festive meal.
That’s why UnitingSA’s Christmas Appeal exists, to bring hope to local families doing it tough. Every year, the Appeal provides essentials and gifts to help make Christmas a little brighter for hundreds of South Australians.
“When people contribute to our Christmas Appeal, they’re giving more than a present,” says UnitingSA CEO, Jenny Hall. “They’re reminding others that they’re not alone and that people really do care.”
Easy ways to get kids involved this Christmas
Helping children experience the joy of giving doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here are a few simple ideas to get started.
Donate a gift together
Take your child shopping for a toy, book or puzzle to donate. Talk about how it will make another child’s Christmas morning a little brighter.
Create a giving jar
Encourage kids to pop a few coins from their pocket money into a jar during the year. At Christmas, decide together where to donate it. They’ll love seeing how their small savings can make a real impact.
Share something homemade
Bake cookies for neighbours who might be by themselves or write cards for residents in a local aged care home. Little acts of kindness can teach big lessons.
Volunteer as a family
Look for family-friendly volunteering opportunities, like sorting donations or helping at a community event. When kids see giving in action, they feel part of something bigger.
Talk about why giving matters
Use everyday moments to start conversations about kindness and gratitude. Ask your children how they think someone might feel receiving a gift, a meal or a simple act of help. These conversations can be small, but they leave a lasting impression.
A Christmas that means more
After the challenges of recent years, many families are feeling the pinch and that’s why the spirit of giving means even more right now.
“This year, we’re asking South Australians to come together to make Christmas special for everyone,” says UnitingSA CEO, Jenny Hall. “Whether you give a little or a lot, every donation helps someone feel seen and supported.”
When your child helps wrap a gift, drops a toy in a collection box or talks about helping others, they’re learning lessons that last long after the decorations come down.
Because while presents are soon forgotten, the feeling of giving and knowing you’ve made someone else’s day brighter stays on.
How to make a difference together
UnitingSA’s Christmas Appeal is now open and every contribution helps bring hope to local families in need.
Your support provides essentials for families and gifts for children who might otherwise go without. It’s a simple way to show your children the true meaning of Christmas, that joy grows when it’s shared.
Together, we can make sure every family experiences the warmth and connection of the festive season.
To donate or find out how your family can get involved, visit unitingsa.com.au/christmasappeal.