Turning holiday giving into a family tradition

As families head into the December season, many are shifting part of their annual celebrations toward giving to a charitable cause. Such an approach brings meaning back to the holidays, and teaches younger members values they can carry into adulthood.

Why families are turning giving into tradition

Families who gather at the end of the year often see an opening to talk about generosity, empathy, and responsibility. December brings a rare window when most members are in one place without the usual demands of school or work.

Adults say these conversations help children understand how their decisions affect others. Many note that the talks work best when they stay simple and practical rather than technical.

Engaging younger members has also become a major point of emphasis, as parents and grandparents report that children often connect quickly with issues they learned in school or observed in their community. Asking them to speak about these topics gives them ownership and increases their interest.

Bringing meaning back to the season

Families who have not yet discussed charitable priorities can begin with a simple question at the dinner table: Which causes matter most?

Parents often find that children notice community issues on their own, whether it’s a classroom fundraiser or a story they saw online. Hence, asking them to explain why they care can help set the tone for a shared plan. A brief discussion early in the season gives families enough time to act on their ideas before the year ends.

Building a shared plan

Families who want a more structured approach often pick one date each year to talk about their goals. Some schedule it after dinner. Others choose a night when everyone can gather without rushing.

Pooling contributions can also create a sense of unity. Households sometimes create a shared fund to support one or two causes each year. Even relatives who live far away can contribute and track how their support is used.

Meanwhile, families living in the same community often choose activities such as sorting food at a pantry or helping wrap gifts. These hands-on efforts allow children to see how small actions lead to real help. Younger and older relatives alike can take part, making it an activity that spans generations.

The nitty gritty

Households can choose from several methods, depending on their financial approach, such as direct contributions or explore other options by consulting with experts.

Families already reviewing budgets and taxes in December can tie those talks to a review of their charitable goals. These conversations can lead to broader discussions about how family values are carried forward.

Some households include charities in beneficiary paperwork or ask younger relatives to join the decision-making process. Parents who explain their choices often find that children and teens grow more comfortable with the idea of giving.

A tradition that lasts beyond gifts

Over time, a shared commitment to giving can become part of the household rhythm, much like baking together, reading holiday stories or gathering for a yearly meal. Families who take part year after year often say the discussions and shared actions create memories that outlast the festivities, giving children and adults a sense that they contributed to something meaningful as a group.

(Editor’s Note: This article is part of a special collaboration between Metrobank and BusinessWorld. Our aim is to explore the facets of living well for Wealth Insights readers, who value the finer things in life. From discerning choices in cars, dining, and travel to appreciating exquisite jewelry and, ultimately, the journey toward building a legacy.)