But, do you intentionally teach your kids about kindness or do you just want them to be kind? We tend to work on sharing and feelings a lot when they’re toddlers, but after that it’s easy to fall into the pattern of just reminding them to be kind. Kids get older, life gets busy and somehow taking the time for intentional kindness gets less attention.

Instead of trinkets, treats, and tchotchkes, perhaps consider an advent calendar that’s less about stuff and about something more meaningful. Spreading kindness and empathy is the best way to teach children the true reason for the season.