While learning is mainly done from books, the internet and school, the truth of the matter is that knowledge can be found anywhere. Going out into the real world and experiencing all that it has to offer is sure to teach individuals with a lesson or two. As Einstein once said, “Information is not knowledge. The only source of knowledge is experience. You need experience to gain wisdom.”
Before children voluntarily search for these experiences and build up the courage to tackle new challenges that teach them empowering lessons, volunteering activities make for a great start. More than a mere act that improves the well-being of others and the immediate community, the immense benefits of volunteering can be reaped by children of all ages. Synonymous with enriching educational activities, volunteering will not only reduce screen time but also pave the way to academic and interpersonal success as it:
1. Inspires Giving and Builds Empathy
The act of volunteering offers little ones the chance to put themselves in the shoes of others. Through the stories they may hear from individuals with different backgrounds, a deeper sense of empathy will be built. Moreover, volunteering at places such as retirement homes will make clear that even the smallest of gestures can bring about change. Through the awareness that grand actions are not the only way to make a difference in someone’s life, your child will be motivated to spring into action in the future. These small acts of kindness are a powerful tool in fostering empathy, transforming learning milestones like the need to share and take turns into instinctive habits.
2. Sharpens Social Skills
It is common for parents to be concerned about their children making friends and being social. Volunteering exposes your child to a varied range of environments and situations. This opens up doors for them to work alongside others. Meeting new individuals that they are not used to seeing regularly allows them to learn the proper way of interacting with people. Over time, communication, cooperation and collaboration skills will improve. Since volunteer activities often involve working with others to overcome challenges, your child will learn the importance of teamwork, problem-solving and receiving feedback as well. These skills eventually develop into prosocial habits vital for their future and give them a strong sense of belonging.
3. Sparks Interests and Passions
Throughout school, children are exposed to a pedagogy that ensures they stay curious and open-minded. This is done so that they stay excited to learn what sparks their interest and develop a sense of identity. Similarly, volunteering is an alternative method of helping your child find and pick up new interests and skills. As the opportunities to learn during volunteering activities are multi-directional, these skills can be carried with them throughout life, enabling them to develop a sense of purpose.
4. Increases Self-Efficacy and Self-Esteem
When childrens volunteer, they are able to witness the tangible difference they have made. Seeing the impact of their positive actions and having their efforts recognised will boost their confidence in their own capabilities. This newfound self-esteem will create a beneficial cycle of feeling self-assured, having no fear of doing more good and feeling a sense of accomplishment.
5. Encourages Boldness
Volunteering teaches little ones that the smallest actions hold much weight and can make the biggest difference. At the same time, volunteering will expose your child to the real world and the hardships the underprivileged face day-to-day. These lessons can be taken with them to their school or home. For example, should your child witness a peer having a hard time on the first day of school or not participating in class, they are more likely to reach out rather than wait for an adult to step in.
At MindChamps, we nurture children to become young Champions by instilling attributes of confidence, gratefulness, self-reflection and compassion. Understanding the importance of volunteering and the provision of a holistic learning experience, our educators are trained to incorporate the S.M.I.L.E.S elements into lessons. Be it through classroom or outdoor activities, we nurture childrens with highly developed emotional and social skills. To find out more about how we encourage gratitude, build confidence and foster curiosity, book a tour at one of our centres.