Raising Kids Who Give: Our End-of-Summer Tradition of Serving Others

As summer comes to a close, many families are busy preparing for the school year ahead. Even though my girls aren’t school-age yet, this season has become a special time in our family – a time to pause, reflect, and give back to those who need it most.

One of our favorite end-of-summer traditions is shopping for back-to-school supplies for kids in our community who might not otherwise have what they need. It’s a simple act, but one that allows us to teach our daughters about kindness, gratitude, and the joy of serving others.

Why We End Summer with Service

Summer always seems to fly by in a blur of sunshine, adventures, and late evenings outside. As the season winds down, we try to shift our hearts from receiving – enjoying vacations, fun outings, and treats – to giving. It’s a way of closing summer on a note of gratitude and starting fall with the reminder that we are called to love others well.

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Acts 20:35

This tradition helps us anchor our family values in generosity, even before our kids are old enough to fully understand the impact.

Our Family Tradition

This year, our three year old helped me pick out new packpacks, notebooks, crayons, and pencils for children in need. She lit up at the chance to choose bright colors and fun patterns – not for herself, but for another child.

Even our 1-year-old got to be a part of it, helping me “carry” a few small items to the cart. It may seem like a small thing, but I want both girls to grow up knowing that serving others isn’t an occasional event – it’s a rhythm of life.

While we shop, I explain in simple words:

“We’re helping other kids feel ready for school. God gives us so much, and we get to share with others.”

These little conversations, paired with action, plant seeds of compassion that I pray will grow with them.

Simple Ways Young Kids Can Give Back

If your kids are too young for school shopping, there are still plenty of ways they can be involved:

• Donate gently used toys or books as a family project.
• Pack a bag of snacks for a local food shelf.
• Draw or color cards for teachers, neighbors, or kids in shelters.
• Pray together for the children and families who will receive the donations.
• Create a kindness box where kids can add items to give throughout the year.

Even small hands can make a big difference

Connecting Faith to Action

We often talk about how God calls us to love others in tangible ways. Service doesn’t have to be grand or complicated – sometimes it looks like a child choosing markers and notebooks for a friend they’ll never meet.

By weaving faith into these moments, we remind our children that generosity isn’t about us being “good” – it’s about responding to God’s goodness.

Encouraging Other Families

If you’re looking to start your own end-of-summer tradition, here are a few easy steps:

1. Find a local backpack drive or children’s charity. Many churches and community groups run donation events in August.
2. Let your kids be involved. Whether they choose supplies, pack bags, or say a prayer, their participation matters.
3. Make it a family kindness day. After donating, celebrate with a picnic or simple family outing to mark the occasion.

Closing Thoughts

As I watched my kids carefully place pencils and crayons into a backpack this year, I couldn’t help but think about the little boy or girl who will walk into their first day of school feeling seen or cared for.

That’s the kind of heart I want to nurture in my children – one that looks outward, notices the needs of others, and responds with joy.

Our end-of-summer giving tradition may be small, but it’s shaping our family in big ways. And my hope is that it inspires you to create your own tradition of generosity, too.

What are some ways your family gives back at the end of summer? Share in the comments – I’d love to hear your ideas!