To go along with the eight stops of the Read the World Book Club, I’ve chosen eight Heal the World Challenges–small ways to impact those near and far as a family.
These simple, yet powerful actions begin to create a culture of giving back and thinking of others in your home, which is what we all long for in raising children who love and care about the world.
I’d love to hear what your family does here in the forum–enjoy!
#1 Challenge Theme – FAMILY
Do an unexpected kindness for someone in your family. Put all family members’ names on slips of paper, then have each person pick one and plan a small surprise!
Figuring out the love languages for those in your family might help make it even more special!
#2 Challenge Theme – PRAYER
As a family, create a prayer bowl! Gather everyone and together, create a list of the issues, places, and people (near or far) on your family’s heart. Include relatives, countries, issues, ministries, anything!
Afterwards, cut the list apart into separate strips of paper. Fold each one and place in a bowl on or near your dining table. Begin using it regularly as a prayer reminder for the world–before or after dinner, or whenever it works for your family!
#3 Challenge Theme – NEIGHBORS
Surprise a neighbor with a care package on their doorstep. As a family, pray and plan who and what it should be.
Will you try to make it an anonymous gift (ring the doorbell & run away!) or leave a note? Decide together and have fun!
#4 Challenge Theme – GRATITUDE
Write a note, email, or text to someone who has impacted your life in a positive way, and let them know how thankful you are for them and the difference they’ve made in your life!
You could also consider creating a positivity bean jar as a family to encourage gratitude in your home.
#5 Challenge Theme – THE HUNGRY/HOMELESS
Find a way to help the hungry and/or the homeless!
Ideas: FreeRice.com, The Hunger Site, volunteer at or donate to your local food bank, or create kits to keep in the car that you can pass out to those who are homeless when you have the opportunity.
#6 Challenge Theme – THE ELDERLY
Make the life of an older person better this week with a call, virtual visit, card, and/or gift!
#7 Challenge Theme – EDUCATION
Donate books, curricula, or supplies to someone in need in your community or to an organization like Books for Africa!
#8 Challenge Theme – THOSE WHO DIFFER FROM YOU
In honor of Multi-Cultural Week, find a way to connect with someone who differs from you–a different race, religion, culture, and/or perspective. Host them for a picnic outdoors or interview them via FaceTime, become friends, ask questions, and see all that you can learn.
If that’s not possible right now, try focusing on books/videos that emphasize understanding and empathy for all God’s children around the world, highlighting the beauty in both our differences and our similarities.