Ask the Expert: How Kids Can Build a Habit of Giving

Kids can learn early that money isn’t only for spending, it can also be a way to help others. But “philanthropy” can sound like a big word, and families often wonder where to start, especially if there isn’t extra money to give.

In this Ask the Expert post, Greg Murray, Chief Revenue Officer at TIFIN Give, breaks down what philanthropy and charitable giving mean in everyday language. He explains why giving matters, how kids can be philanthropic even without money, how to learn about nonprofits that match the causes you care about, and simple habits, like the Save, Spend, Give rule, that can shape how kids think about money for life.

 1. What is philanthropy and charitable giving?

Philanthropy means helping other people and making the world better.
Charitable giving is one way to do that, by donating money, time, or things to help people, animals, or causes in need.

It could mean:

• Donating clothes or toys

• Giving money to help families in need

• Helping raise money for a cause

• Volunteering your time

At its heart, philanthropy is about caring and taking action.

 2. Why is it important?

It’s important because:

• It helps people who need support.

• It teaches kindness and empathy.

• It shows you that your actions can make a difference.

• It helps you think beyond yourself.

Learning about giving at a young age also helps shape how you think about money. Instead of seeing money as something just to spend, you learn that it can also be a tool to create positive change.

That mindset can shape your financial future in a powerful way.

 3. If I don’t have money to give, can I still be philanthropic?

Absolutely. You do not need money to be generous. You can give:

• Your time – volunteer, help a neighbor, tutor someone.

• Your talents – draw cards for a hospital, play music at a senior center, help design a flyer.

• Your voice – raise awareness about causes you care about.

Philanthropy is about impact — not just dollars.

 4. How can I learn about non-profits that align with causes I care about?

You can:

• Talk with your parents, teachers, or mentors.

• Research online (with adult guidance).

• Visit local community centers or charity events.

• Ask questions like:

• What problem are they solving?

• Who are they helping?

• How do they use donations?

Start with causes that matter to you. Examples could be animals, the environment, education, health, veterans, or helping families in need.

When you care about the cause, giving feels meaningful.

5. What can I do at a young age to build this habit and shape my financial future?

Here are simple habits that can last a lifetime:

• Save, Spend, Give Rule: When you receive money, divide it into three buckets: some to save, some to spend, and some to give.

• Volunteer regularly with family or friends.

• Set giving goals, just like savings goals.

• Learn how money works, understand earning, saving, investing, and giving.

• Talk about impact, not just income.

When you start thinking this way early, you grow up seeing money not just as something you earn, but as something you can use to build a life of purpose.

And that mindset can shape not only your financial future, but your character as well.

Become a member to download our one-page, kid-friendly handout on building a habit of giving.