It's a good idea for parents to get their children to start volunteering at a younger age. Helping out in the neighborhood and community is a good way to make the place you live a safer place, and it can be fun and beneficial for the volunteers, especially the children.

Children that volunteer at a younger age have a higher chance of developing important life skills, such as cooperation, empathy and empowerment, as well as showing them that they have the power to make positive changes to individuals and to the community.

Parents can start off small by taking children to community clean ups at parks or schools. Children enjoy being outdoors, running around and having something to do with all their energy. Have them pick up trash (with gloves on), and help plant bushes and saplings.

Consider taking the kids to a retirement home to spend time with elderly doing what they like. Some possible ideas include playing board games with the seniors, entertaining them through song or dance or even cooking with them.

Most importantly, listen to your children and have them come up with ideas about how they think they can help. Ask them about what issues concern them, and who they would most like to help. Help them brainstorm ideas that they would most enjoy.