I’ve been complaining a lot on Facebook and Twitter about the Christmas decorations up in stores since September. Pushing the season a little earlier every year really dilutes my pleasure in the holidays.
But some Christmas activities need to happen in advance. The main one for my family is packing our Operation Christmas Child box.
I save a shoebox or two during the year just so we’ll have them in November. So, it’s time to get your empty shoeboxes out and pack them full of Christmas cheer.
This year, put your kids in charge of selecting and packing your Operation Christmas Child box. I find that it’s a great way to help your children understand generosity and gratitude.
Isn’t that funny that by giving a gift to a child who otherwise wouldn’t receive one, you are also giving something very valuable to your own kids.
Now is the time to pack your shoe box. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a standard-size shoebox or a plastic container about the same size. You can wrap the lid, but it’s not required.
- Decide if your gift is for a boy or a girl, and pick one of three age groups: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. You can get a tracking label on the OCC website so you can see the destination of your box!
- Pack it full of full and thoughtful gifts appropriate for the age and gender you’ve selected.Check the OCC website for a list of appropriate items like toys, school supplies, and hygiene items.
- Donate $7 (or more) for each shoebox you fill up. You can donate by check or through the website.
- Send it on its way during national collection week, November 12 through 19. Find drop-off locations near you.
This holiday season build a box with your family to teach kindness, compassion, and generosity.
BlogFrog will match the first 200 boxes that are built. Pledge your commitment below to build a box today on Facebook or Twitter!
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Operation Christmas Child. The opinions and text are all mine.
