WNY Family Magazine February 2019 | Page 9

In the past, we’ve packed things like stickers, jump ropes, stuffed animals, socks, bows, toys, and clothes inside the shoeboxes. For a detailed list and com- plete instructions, visit the Samaritans Purse website. Build one box or more throughout the year whenever you see items that might fit your box(es). Instead of making your own box, you can also encourage your kids to do a fundraising project to raise $25, enough to “build a box online” through the or- ganization’s website, where you get to choose from a list of gifts and add a per- sonal letter and photo. Samaritan’s Purse will pack and ship the box for you. You can also track your shoebox all across the world to see where it ends up! This is a great way to teach your kids about geography and is a tangible way to spread kindness around the world. 7) Invite someone over for a meal who might otherwise be alone. Go outside your comfort zone and ask that person you know in your life who might be alone. It’s important for kids to see their parents being good role models, making impactful deci- sions, and including everyone. When they see you do good – they want to do good things too. Maybe there’s a family in your neighborhood who has recently relocated from another state and they have no family nearby. Ask them. I had a friend who did this for me years ago and it was one of the nicest things any- one has ever done for me. There’s noth- ing more sincere than sharing a home- cooked meal in someone else’s home. These seven boredom busters are not only easy to do but they’re good human deeds, and who doesn’t want to help shape their children into kind human be- ings? Remind your kids that there is al- ways a way to do something nice, espe- cially during the “I’m bored” moments. Parenting journalist and author, Mea- gan Ruffing, loves a good challenge. Her three children will be using this list dur- ing their winter break this year. Children In Action GYMNASTICS Follow us on NOW REGISTERING for Winter Classes Call 662-6886 75 Mid County Drive, Orchard Park (Located in the Southtowns Tennis Center) /WNYFamily /WNYFamily ACTIVE Children are HEALTHY Children OUR PROGRAM FEATURES: • Gymnastics • Birthday Parties • Tumbling for children 12 months to 12 years old • Parent and Tot Classes • Exciting Circuit • Scaled down equipment for younger children www.childreninactiongym.com #GetYourBounceOn with a Monthly Play Pass. ONLY $43.50 MONTHLY DRAWING! Post pic at Bounce Magic using #GetYourBounceOn @BounceMagicNY And you could Win 2 FREE Play Passes! Mid-Winter Recess Open Early 10am-9pm No mini bounce this week. 4255 McKinley Pkwy., Hamburg 4090 Maple Rd., Amherst (716) 646-5867 bouncemagic.com February 2019 WNY Family 9