When I heard that “The Little Generosity Shop” would be visiting Port Elizabeth (as part of their seven-stop “tour”) I knew I just had to share the initiative with my fellow Nelson Mandela Bayers (that’s not a thing, but let’s pretend, shall we). Because from what I’ve seen we have big hearts around these parts and are super willing to give.

So what is “The Little Generosity shop”? Well it’s Cadbury’s way of shedding light on the plight of South Africa’s orphaned children. ‘The Little Generosity Shop’ gives us the chance to make a difference in the lives of as many children as possible by collecting toys, books and games – in exchange for a Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate. (Because the car you just stumped your toe on could make a little child’s year)

Personally I think this is an awesome way to encourage our own kids to give from their hearts (not because of the chocolate- although, bonus) but because visitors to the little generosity shop have the opportunity to write a personalised message to the child they will be donating their toy to. In addition, visitors will be able to learn about the history of Cadbury Dairy Milk and pick up tips on how to spread their generosity even further with ‘Cadbury Chronicles’. The interactive wall will show how the journey of a single donated toy inspires untold happiness and will track the number of toys collected as part of the campaign.

Cadbury Dairy Milk is bringing ‘The Little Generosity Shop’ to: 

• Johannesburg: Sandton City, Checkers Court (29 May – 17 June)

• Durban: Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Centre Court (25 June – 8 July)

• Cape Town: Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Centre Court (19 July – 5 August)

The mobile shop will be visiting:

• Bloemfontein: Loch Logan (7, 8 & 9 June)

• Port Elizabeth: Baywest Mall (15 & 16 June)

• Pretoria: Irene Village Mall (28, 29 & 30 June)

• Nelspruit: Riverside Mall (12, 13 & 14 July)

To find out how to share your generosity, visit www.cadburyglassandahalf.co.za and follow them on @CadburyDairyMilkSA on Facebook or @Cadbury_SA on Twitter and Instagram.

If you end up going and posting on social media, use these hashtags so I can show you some love 🙂 #GlassAndAHalf #TheLittleGenerosityShop

But before I go I promised some other ways to encourage your kids to share. I am no expert, but I can share my personal experience so here are five things I’ve done with Aidan to help him get used to the idea of giving to those less fortunate.

• Aidan has helped me bake cupcakes for kids with cancer. In September I usually donate treats to Cupcakes of Hope. This Non-Profit Company’s aim is to raise awareness and funds for families in need of medical assistance through cupcake themed events.
• Aidan has helped me make a big ‘ol batch of playdough to give to the kids at Aurora Special Care Centre for profoundly mentally and physically handicapped children and adults when I went to hang out with them earlier this year.
• Sometimes (with the help of sponsors and blog readers) I donate gift bags of goodies to various charities. I sit Aidan down and explain the reason for the gifts and he helps me pack. He helped me with the CHOC Christmas party, My Anti-Bullying event with Sailor Joe’s tattoo parlor and most recently packs for teen girls at a local children’s home.
• Every few months I have Aidan pick out toys he is ready to part with. I believe his love language is giving, so this one isn’t too difficult. I bet if I asked him to part with the Xbox he would be singing a whole different tune.
• Aidan tends to get nervous when any friend has to go to the hospital (I think it’s because of Logan). It helps him feel useful (me too maybe) to make up a little fabric bag filled with things like crayons or playdough to keep his friend busy while healing.

These are some of the ways I’ve introduced Aidan to charity without overwhelming him. If you have any additional ideas please do share them with us…