Children have a natural drive to help others. From sharing a toy with a friend to offering a comforting hug, the instinct to give is already within them. As parents, we have the incredible opportunity to nurture this generosity and help our children understand the power of philanthropy—giving time, resources, and kindness to those in need.
That’s why Community Mitzvah Day on March 30 is the perfect opportunity to engage your family in hands-on acts of giving. With programs designed for every child—from getting their hands dirty in the garden to caring for animals or creating art—there’s a way for everyone to find joy in giving back.
Turn Kids’ Compassion into Action
It’s one thing to tell our children about the importance of giving back—it’s another to show them. When kids can see, touch, and feel the impact of their generosity, it transforms philanthropy from an abstract concept into something real and meaningful.
Imagine your child carefully packing a box of food, knowing that it will provide a warm meal for someone in need.
Feel their excitement as they plant a succulent, learning how even a small act—like bringing greenery to a space—can brighten someone’s day.
See their pride as they work alongside their friends at Rise Against Hunger, packaging meals that will be sent to people around the world facing food insecurity.
These tangible, real-time experiences make giving a habit, not just a one-time event.
Tying “Giving Back” into Storytime
One of the best ways to teach children about giving is through storytelling. A wonderful PJ Library book that brings this concept to life is Maddi’s Fridge by Lois Brandt. In this story, a young girl named Sofia discovers that her best friend, Maddi, doesn’t have enough food in her fridge. Wanting to help, Sofia wrestles with how to support Maddi while respecting her feelings. Through small but meaningful actions, Sofia learns that even kids can make a difference in their own communities.
Reading books like Maddi’s Fridge helps kids understand that kindness and generosity come in many forms—and that even small actions can have a big impact.
Here are some PJ Library books paired with Mitzvah Day projects to spark your child’s giving spirit:
- Morning & Afternoon Passover Packing
PJ Library Book: The Passover Guest by Susan Kusel
- Cemetery Cataloging
PJ Library Book: Stones for Grandpa
- JESPY House
PJ Library Book: A Sack Full of Feathers by Debby Waldman
- Potting Succulents at Lester Senior Housing
PJ Library Book: When Zaydeh Danced on Eldridge Street by Elsa Okon Rael
- Animal Toy & Blanket Making
PJ Library Book: Noah’s Ark by Linda Falken
- Rise Against Hunger
PJ Library Book: Joseph and the Sabbath Fish by Eric A. Kimmel
- Dignity Grows
PJ Library Book: A Basket Full of Figs by Ori Elon
- At Home Packing
PJ Library Book: Bagels from Benny by Aubrey Davis
PJ Library Book: Farmer Kobi’s Hanukkah Match by Karen Rostoker-Gruber and Ron Isaacs
These books make the lesson of giving come to life, inspiring your child to turn their kindness into action.
Giving Back Teaches Your Kids More Than Just Kindness
While we’re teaching our kids about generosity, we’re also fostering empathy, awareness, motivation, and leadership skills. These experiences empower them to see themselves as active members of their community, capable of making change.
Every donation (be it time, effort, or resources) helps people in need. From local families to our extended Jewish family in Israel, Ukraine, and beyond. The UJA Annual Campaign plays a crucial role in supporting these efforts, ensuring that every act of generosity stretches far beyond what we can see.
There are so many ways for families to get involved on March 30! Come see me at Rise Against Hunger in Scotch Plains and let’s show our kids how powerful generosity can be. Can’t make it to Scotch Plains? Check out these other exciting, family-friendly opportunities:
Succulent Planting – Bring greenery and joy to those in need.
Passover Packing – Help prepare holiday food kits for families.
At-Home Activities – Get involved from the comfort of your home!
Let’s make this a day of kindness, connection, and giving—together.
P.S. Want your very own copy of Maddi’s Fridge to add to your home library as you get ready for Community Mitzvah Day? Just reach out to me at [email protected].