Ready to plant the seeds of generosity? Discover a free, heartwarming activity to help your children learn that the best gifts come from the heart.
At TJ's Lessons, we believe building character is just as important as building knowledge. That's why we created the Giving Tree Challenge a fun, interactive way for kids to experience the pure joy of giving!
💚 What is the Giving Tree Challenge?
We know giving is so much more than just physical gifts. It’s about sharing time, kindness, encouraging words, helpful actions, and love. This activity is beautifully designed to help children truly grasp this powerful concept in a hands-on way.
It's the perfect fit for:
- 🏡 Homes: To inspire daily family kindness.
- 🟢 Classrooms: A great way to build a positive group dynamic.
- 🎒 After-School Programs & Daycares: Engaging and character-focused fun.
📚 The Perfect Companion: Justin the Incredible
Before you begin your challenge, let's set the stage! Cozy up and read TJ's Lessons - Justin the Incredible together.
This wonderful story teaches children about kindness, generosity, and the importance of helping a friend in need, creating the ideal emotional foundation for your game.
After reading, spark a meaningful discussion by asking your kids:
- What kinds of things did TJ give in the story?
- How did his choices make a positive difference for his friend Justin?
- How can they be "incredible" by giving, sharing, and supporting others today?
This conversation builds a strong, emotional connection, getting them excited to dive into the challenge!
🟢 Get Ready: Simple Supplies
You likely have all of these simple items at home or in your classroom already:
- Paper (any color)
- Scissors
- Crayons or markers
- Tape or glue
- A dedicated wall space, door, or fridge to display the tree
Optional: Stickers or glitter for extra festive leaves!
🔨 Setting Up Your Giving Tree
- Plant the Trunk: Draw a simple tree trunk (or print one) on a large sheet of paper and hang it up.
- Prepare the Leaves: Cut out paper "leaves" or "ornaments" from the paper. These are the rewards of kindness!
- Create the Bowl: Place the cutouts in a special basket or bowl near the tree.
✅ Giving Missions: Daily Acts of Kindness
The heart of the challenge! Each day, children get to choose a mission card and complete that genuine act of giving to earn a leaf for the tree. It’s all about putting kindness into action!
Mission Ideas to Get Started:
- Give someone a meaningful compliment.
- Share a favorite toy or snack.
- Write a sweet thank-you note.
- Help clean up an area without being asked.
- Give a hug or a high-five.
- Offer to help with a chore.
- Let someone else go first.
- Read to a younger sibling or friend.
- Invite someone who is playing alone to join the fun.
The Reward: Every completed mission = one beautiful leaf added to your Growing Giving Tree!
✅ How Everyone Wins
In this challenge, there are no losers everyone is a winner! The goal is to collaboratively grow the biggest, brightest Giving Tree through shared acts of kindness and generosity.
Conclude your challenge with a heartwarming reflection session:
- Which act of giving felt the best for you today?
- Who did you help, and how do you think it made them feel?
- What did you learn about being generous and kind this week?
These reflections directly align with TJ’s Lessons’ mission to build emotional intelligence, integrity, and strong character!
🏆 Optional Celebration & Keepsake (Keeping trophy as neutral icon that symbolizes winning)
Make their efforts memorable! Create a tangible keepsake to celebrate your little hero:
- Design a “Kindness Hero Badge”
- Print a special “Giving Certificate”
At TJ’s Lessons, we firmly believe that giving isn't about what's in your hands, it's about what's in your heart.
Start your Giving Tree Challenge today and watch your family's kindness bloom!
