More Joy, Less Stress: Why Giving Back Makes Kids Happier

by Tami Silverman, President & CEO of Indiana Youth Institute

During the busy holiday season, many families focus on their celebratory meals, decorations, and shopping lists. Amid such hustle, it is worth remembering the timeless truth: it is better to give than to receive. But how do we teach our children to move beyond consumerism and embrace gratitude and generosity?

Research increasingly shows that giving back is not just good for communities generally, it’s good for kids. Volunteering and acts of kindness are linked to improved mental health, stronger social skills, and even greater happiness. In fact, giving activates the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and oxytocin, the same “feel-good” chemicals triggered by exercise or listening to music. Some psychologists call this the “helper’s high,” and it’s real for children as well as adults.

The Link Between Giving and Well-Being

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that children and teens who volunteered were 34% more likely to be in excellent health, 66% more likely to be “flourishing” (a measure of overall well-being), and 35% less likely to have behavioral problems, compared to peers who did not volunteer. Among adolescents, volunteering also was found to be associated with a significantly lower likelihood of anxiety. Other research confirms that generosity fosters empathy, resilience, and self-esteem, all key ingredients for lifelong happiness.

Why does this matter now? Rates of depression and anxiety among youth remain high. Last year, nearly 3 in 10 Indiana high school students reported persistent sadness or hopelessness. Giving back offers a simple, accessible way to counter these trends by building connection, purpose, and optimism.

Age-Appropriate Ways for Kids to Give Back

Teaching philanthropy starts early and grows with your child’s capacity for empathy and responsibility. Here are practical ideas organized by age group.

Elementary School (Ages 5–10):

• Donate gently used toys, books, or clothes to local shelters.
• Create thank-you cards for community helpers or nursing home residents.
• Help with family food drives or to decorate placemats for Meals on Wheels.

Middle School (Ages 11–13):

• Organize a neighborhood clean-up or recycling project.
• Volunteer at community gardens or animal shelters.
• Participate in charity walks or runs with friends and family.

High School (Ages 14–18):

• Serve meals at a local soup kitchen or food pantry.
• Tutor younger students or mentor through after-school programs.
• Take leadership in organizing drives for coats, books, or hygiene kits.

Across all ages, let kids choose those causes they care about. Whether the focus is animals, the environment, or hunger relief, this helps children feel ownership and pride in their efforts. Family volunteering amplifies the benefits, creating shared memories and modeling empathy in action.

Why It Matters Beyond the Holidays

Generosity goes beyond this season; it is a skill that shapes character and community. Studies show that youth who volunteer are more likely to vote, maintain strong civic habits, and experience higher life satisfaction as adults. Giving back teaches gratitude, empathy, and resilience which are all qualities that help kids thrive in an increasingly complex world.

As we gather this season, let’s make space for service alongside celebration. Simple experiences like writing a thank-you note or a family day at a food bank nurture happiness and hope. When we teach our children to care for others, we give them, and our communities, a gift that lasts long after the holidays.

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