Top 5 Books to Inspire Simplicity and Generosity in Kids
A favorite author and speaker of mine says, “We become the books we read.”
It’s true. What we choose to read reflects who we are, what’s important to us, and what we choose to learn and think about.
The same is true for our children. The type of books we expose them to can help shape their values, thought patterns, and ultimately the people they’ll become.
In our minimalist home, we value spending time with each other over owning the newest, biggest thing. We value generosity, helping those in need, and living simply. We value having fun and adventures instead of spending time maintaining lots of stuff.
It’s important to me to have books in our home that promote what we most value and help pass these values on to our daughters. Books that teach the importance of giving to those in need and living with enough not excess.
Here are the top 5 books I’ve found to teach generosity, simple living, and minimalism to children:
God Gave us Heaven by Lisa Tawn Bergren
This is, in my opinion, the number one “minimalism” book for kids. In this book Little Cub asks Papa Bear questions about life. Papa Bear’s responses teach children that the things of this world are passing and that focusing on them isn’t what life’s about. Here is a direct quote from the book, teaching what our “best stuff” really is:
“Sometimes we think we need stuff, but it’s just more weight for us to carry. Our best stuff doesn’t weigh anything at all – like love, family, friends, and faith. That’s where our real blessings are.”
The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving by Jan and Mike Berenstain
This book sends the message that we find more joy in giving than receiving. It teaches the importance of caring for those less fortunate than us when Brother and Sister Bear, whose initial goal was to spend more money on themselves, end up donating their leftover Christmas money to help the poor. Their change of heart shows children the happiness that comes from giving to others.
The Sparkle Box by Jill Hardie
This beautifully illustrated book highlights the joy that comes from giving to those in need. The main character, a young boy named Sam, is moved at the sight of a homeless man sleeping in the cold on a city park bench. Later Sam encounters the same man in a store and ends up giving him a pair of gloves and chocolate bar that Sam had just bought for himself. The book ends by teaching “the why” behind living in solidarity with others, leaving children with an important lesson.
The Gift of Nothing by Patrick McDonnell
This book tells the story of two friends, Mooch and Earl. Mooch wants to give Earl a gift, but doesn’t know what to give him. Earl already has everything he needs. Mooch’s search for the perfect gift reminds children of how much they already have and encourages them to spend time with someone they love. The greatest gift we can give, the book teaches, is friendship not things.
Here’s a simple book with a powerful lesson. A poor man and his wife have only turnips to eat. They begin trading with their wealthy neighbor: newly knitted socks for milk and cheese. Because the couple is so poor, the wool for these new socks comes straight from the husband’s sweater. As the trading continues, the husband soon finds himself without a shirt. The wealthy neighbor’s response teaches children not to take what we own for granted and shows the beauty of giving to those in need.
These books are staples in our home and are read regularly to promote what we most value. Add a few into your mix today. Don’t be surprised if your children start asking questions about solidarity or are moved to increased generosity.
Books have the power to change our lives – including the lives of our children.