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and ask them to select a toy for a kid their age. Then donate the toy to an organization, such as Project Angel Tree, which distributes gifts on behalf of parents who are in prison. This is a great time to help show your child first-hand the value of sacrificing what they want to someone else; and also about being grateful because many other children are less fortunate.

3. Make homemade gifts. Give from the heart while spending time with your child. Teach your child how to crochet a scarf or do woodworking. Or assemble gift items into a basket and tie with a large, bright bow. It could be as simple as cookies and a candle.
4. Create your own greeting cards and mail them out. Find supplies at a hobby store or be resourceful by using paper and materials already on hand. Spend time working together side-by-side while you impart your family's values.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
1. Go caroling with your kids' youth group. Sing at retirement homes and nursing homes. Older folks will appreciate the energy and joy the kids bring. Don't forget to gather for hot chocolate and marshmallows afterward!
2. Collect clothing and school supplies for needy kids. Send to kids across the country or across the world.
3. Volunteer to feed the homeless families at your local soup kitchen. Or volunteer for a community non-profit organization's fund raiser.
4. Send a "care" package to a soldier or a missionary overseas.

Start a fresh new tradition by NOT giving gifts to each others - instead, whisk the family off to a vacation together. Younger children will be thrilled to visit an adventure park such as Legoland or Disneyland. Remember to check their schedule, not all theme parks are open on Christmas. (Incidently, Christmas is one of the least busy days at theme parks.) Teens enjoy snowboarding at a ski location, and may ask to bring a friend along! If finances allow, visit a tropical vacation resort in Hawaii (don't forget the sunscreen). The best present you can give? The gift of spending time with each other!

For additional information on Christmas meaning, visit www.bible.com/bibleanswers_res ult.php?id=168.

Learn more about this author, Susan Stellar.
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