Top 5 Questions Children Ask About Charity – And How to Answer Them
Children are curious and compassionate. When they learn about people in need or see someone raising money for a cause, the questions children ask about charity can be daunting and hard to answer. As a parent, teacher or carer, being ready with simple and honest answers can help children develop empathy and understand the value of giving.
Here are five of the most common questions children ask about charity—along with simple answers.
Common Questions Children Ask About Charity
1. What is a charity?
Answer:
A charity is a group of people who work together to help support others. That could mean helping people who are ill, don’t have enough food or clean water, or need help getting an education as well as other things. Charities try to make the world a kinder and better place for everyone.
Tip:
Use examples your child can relate to, like raising money to help a child their age get surgery or glasses through Humanity Direct.
2. Why do people need help?
Answer:
Sometimes life is hard for people, and its not their fault. They might be born in a country where it’s hard to get medicine, or their family may not have enough money for important things like food or school. Charities step in to help people when they’re struggling.
Tip:
Keep it kind, not scary. Reassure them that every action makes a difference, both big and small. All actions can make a big difference.
3. Where does the money go when we donate?
Answer:
The money goes towards helping the people the charity supports. At Humanity Direct, for example, every penny goes directly towards a child’s medical care. Donors can even choose which child they want to help or donate directly to the Universal Fund. Our Universal Fund covers the cost of emergency operations and tops up patients who’ve almost reached their fundraising goal.
Tip:
Show your child examples from the Humanity Direct website to make it feel real and personal. Our website also features before and after images so donors can see the impact their money has had on the childs life.
4. Can I help too?
Answer:
Yes! You don’t have to be a grown-up or have lots of money to make a difference. Children can help by fundraising, telling others about a charity, donating toys or clothes they no longer use, or even just spreading kindness. Every little bit counts.
Tip:
Get them to do a simple fundraising activity, like a sponsored walk or bake sale with you or at school. Their schools can also do fundraising days.
5. How do I know if a charity is good or trustworthy?
Answer:
A good charity is transparent about how they use money and who they help. You can look on their website to see updates and real stories. Humanity Direct for example shows you exactly how your donation is used and shares photos and updates from the children they help.
Tip:
This is a great opportunity to teach older children how to ask good questions and support causes they believe in.
The questions children ask about charity can sometimes feel overwhelming. Answer honestly and kindly and they’ll grow into thoughtful, generous people who understand the value of helping others.
At Humanity Direct we believe generosity starts with empathy and it’s never too soon to start. If your family or school want to get involved, check out our fundraising ideas or support a child directly. For fundraising activities that don’t involve running, why not check out our Unconventional fundraising ideas.