As homeschooling parents, we are thankful of the input we have in our child's life. We choose the curricula used for his education; we schedule the hours of class and the field trips taken; we decide what projects will be undertaken (of course, his interests and abilities play an important role in the process).

But along with this freedom comes responsibility. We are responsible to see that he is taught the basics. We do follow state guidelines for core subjects. But what about character traits we want to see in our son as he grows into a man? I believe it is an individual thing... what is important to you as the parent/teacher, will determine what characteristics you want him to develop.

There are many things I want to see in my son's life as he matures... kindness to others, respect to adults/authority figures, a forgiving heart, and a generous spirit.

But how do you cultivate a spirit of generosity in a child? I believe that it is like any other characteristic you want to develop_ start while they are small, and do it a little at a time. Remind your child how important it is to give to those less fortunate than yourself.

How do you do it, in a concrete, "hands on" way? From the beginning, we have found simple ways to integrate the concept into our life. We have looked for books to read to him that tell of those who give unselfishly to others and we have watched movies that repeat the theme of giving. Then, we moved to the next phase_ the act of giving. It can be something as simple as giving your change to the Salvation Army kettles that are out during the holidays. Our son has been giving change for several years now (of course, the candy they give him doesn't hurt, either). We have encouraged him to donate toys he doesn't play with anymore, outgrown clothing, etc. Of course, we do not believe in giving damaged or worn out items, only things that still have lots of use left in them. As my son has some clothing that has never been worn, many things are still new with tags, when we give them away.

We look for other ways to encourage him to continue the spirit of giving. What we have worked on for the last year or so, is Samaritan's Purse's "Operation Christmas Child". This is simply filling a shoe box with toys, gum or hard candy, warm socks or mittens, etc. and sending them to a needy child somewhere in the world. It isn't an expensive project, yet it helps him to remember those in need.

This year, we received a request from Guideposts magazine for financial assistance in mailing Christmas cards to our troops. When I mentioned the project to my son, he wanted to help. He even donated some of his own money. This "mother heart" of mine swelled a little bigger that day. It proved that maybe, just maybe, he was becoming the generous person I had hoped for.

There are so many ways to reach out to others in this world, even if you are a one income family, as we are. Starting out small and gradually building up to bigger projects will show your child that it can be done, one step at a time.