Generosity

I would like our family to focus on generosity over the next year. To find ways to be more aware and thoughtful to the needs of others, and to give of ourselves, and want less for ourselves.

My thought is to read short stories with that theme, but also to challenge our family to become generous in a variety of ways. I am thinking of using the five love languages as our springboard. Starting with the love language of ‘quality time’, we would challenge ourselves to be generous in spending quality time within the family as well as with others. That might mean planning more family activities, inviting friends over, or even just recognizing moments to stop and have a conversation with a neighbour. The other love languages are ‘gifts’, ‘words of affirmation’, ‘acts of service’, and ‘physical touch’.

Does anyone have any creative ideas, or examples of ways that their family focused on others on a daily basis?

I am also looking for suggestions of picture books or short stories with the theme of generosity.
I have The Child’s Book of Character Building, which has a section on generosity, so that will give us a place to start.
Chapter book suggestions are fine, as long as the theme is strong. Biography recommendations would be great.

My son is 7, so I also want him to understand that we need to be sensitive to the needs and preferences of others.

Looking forward to your thoughts and suggestions!