40-Day Christmas Challenge | Day 35 • Share Joy Today • Everyday Cheapskate

Ever notice how your kids reach for the same favorite toys over and over, even as new ones pile up? Today’s challenge is all about making room for what’s next while planting the seeds of generosity. By helping your children donate toys they no longer use, you’re creating space for new memories and giving them the priceless gift of giving back. Bonus: it’s also a perfect way to declutter without the stress!

Day 35: Share Joy Today

Let’s turn gently-used toys into treasures for kids who might not otherwise get any. Sit down with your children, sort through their toy collection, and let them pick items they’ve outgrown or no longer play with. Explain how these toys can bring joy to another child and involve them in the cleaning and donation process. It’s their chance to see generosity in action.

Add a touch of magic by framing it as “Toys for Santa.” Pick a few items to “leave for Santa,” who will secretly deliver them to children in need. Keep the delivery part under wraps for now, and reveal the story later. It adds excitement and wonder.

Action Step

Talk with your kids about the spirit of giving this season.
Together, sort through toys and select gently-used ones to donate.
Clean the toys and make sure everything works.
Set aside some toys to “leave for Santa.”
Once the kids are asleep, store the toys for delivery to a local charity.

Not everyone has little ones at home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spread a little holiday cheer. Take a few gently-used items you no longer need (i.e., books, kitchen gadgets, toys, or even warm scarves) and donate them to a local charity or shelter. You can also “adopt” a family through a community program, or drop off goodies at a children’s hospital. The idea is the same: create space in your home, lift someone else’s spirits, and feel the joy that comes from giving, no matter your household setup.

Need donation ideas? Check local shelters, children’s hospitals, or seasonal toy drives. Some organizations even offer free pickup during the holidays →

Why It Matters

Giving teaches empathy and gratitude, and this simple act helps kids see the joy in generosity. By donating toys, they learn to appreciate what they have, care for others, and create space, both physically and emotionally, for new experiences. And yes, decluttering your home is a sweet bonus.

More Ways to Participate in #EC40DayChallenge:

Question: How did today’s challenge go in your home? Share favorite moments, tips, or how your kids reacted in the comments. We love hearing how families are spreading joy.

Bonus: Snap a photo of your kids sorting toys or leaving some for “Santa.” Post it with #EC40DayChallenge and show how your family is giving back this season!