Victoria: The Savvy Guide to December

It’s December, and even though you might be thinking about that long gift list for your friends and family, we’ve moved on. It’s time to start thinking about how to instill an appreciation for the gift of ‘giving’ in your kids.

Here are some ideas for you to help capture the true spirit of the holidays.

DO
Bring your kids to your local toy store to choose a gift for someone they don’t know, then wrap it up and drop it off at a toy drive
Why? Because it’s good for them to understand that some kids don’t get everything they want for the holidays—in fact, some don’t get anything at all.

GET
A gift of three baby chicks for someone who has everything
Why? Because it’s a $15 gift that literally keeps on giving for girls in developing nations who will use the chicken eggs to sell and feed their own families. It could help save a girl’s life.

PLAY
In the snow with the kids, and be a friendly neighbour by shoveling the driveway or walkway for someone who can’t do it themselves
Why? It’s a great way to spend time with your family outside and teach the kids how to think of others in their community.

READ
A letter from Santa to his loyal little ones
Why? Because it’s a lovely letter that encourages kids to give back to their communities and their parents. (Wouldn’t you like the gift of ‘thanks’ from your kids this season?)

HELP
Support SickKids Transplant Centre through our annual holiday giving campaign in support of SickKids Foundation in partnership with The Penny Paper Co.
Why? For every 100 Calling Cards purchased using code SavvyMom, The Penny Paper Co. will donate $20 to the SickKids Transplant Centre, a renowned, family-focused centre with interdisciplinary and innovative teams saving countless children’s lives through medical transplants. You can also donate directly to our campaign online.

GREEN IT
Make a special green holiday craft with your kids and gift it to a home for the elderly or hospital to help decorate their tree
Why? Because it’s a fun and easy activity to do, especially for your youngest elves, and they’ll take pride in gifting something they made themselves. Read the instructions here.