Alternative Charitable Gifts for Kids: Pet Adoptions, Sponsorships and More

Watching my children open presents on Christmas morning is magical. It is a privilege to be able to provide such joy for my kids. Yet, as a parent, I worry about creating pint-sized materialistic consumers. After all, many of those wished for items from the local toy store will be broken or forgotten long before the next Christmas rolls around. This year, consider including an alternative gift for the children in your lives. The right kind of charitable gift can be meaningful, educational, and fun for children to receive. (And tax-deductible for you!) Here are a few organizations that will help instill a spirit of compassion in your kids in a tangible way that they will understand.

Adopt an Animal
Kids and animals go together like peanut butter and jelly. Check out ways to "adopt" an animal and teach your child about the natural world.

World Wildlife Federation (www.worldwildlife.org)
Click "Adoption Center" to choose an animal to adopt. You will help save endangered animals from around the world and support the conservation efforts to preserve their natural habitats. There are 80 species to choose from. For a $25 symbolic donation, your child will receive an adoption certificate and a photo of the animal. A $50 donation includes the certificate, photo, and a plush animal. A $100 donation includes a framed certificate, photo, plush animal, map, and gift box.