The holidays are here and even if you are not particularly "into" the season, you will most likely be around those who are. It is often said that this season is about the children. It is a season of giving and we at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital hope that your family finds loved ones healthy and if not, that they are well cared for.

We've reminded you through Twitter and Facebook to be on the look out for common safety hazards which can take the joy out of this time of year. We've covered how to keep young children active during time off from school, including the kid-favorite - the snow day.

Most have done their shopping that they needed to do or were able to do by now. Many families in our area have had to cut back on the giving. This is an important time to teach children that not every year is the same for a family. Many parents have had to explain why their children will not be receiving as much this year. During a season that should be focused more on giving, this seems to be the perfect chance to steer your child's attention from what might be on their "list."

Our family participated in the Santa Claus Girls package delivery on Saturday. Both of our kids made personal deliveries to the front doors of very grateful families. It was a good experience for all of us. While taking phone donations at the STAR 105.7 "Think Outside Yourself" Radiothon on Thursday last week, a mother called. She said her three children, ages 10, 7 and 5, decided to allow her to forgo purchasing one gift each for them so that they could donate the collective $25 to Helen DeVos Children's Hospital. That night, I presented this idea to my children. My son said, "Can the present that I don't get be clothes?" He is five and it's a start.

Many of you have thought of very creative ways to invite your children to give this time of year and year around. I'd like to hear from you. How do you teach your children to give?

Happy holidays on behalf of everyone at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital.