(NC) -- Parents can plant seeds of compassion this holiday season by letting their children care for others. This time of year there are many ways to nurture empathy.

-- Have kids help out with holiday planning. A parent hosting a party can ask their child how to make it more enjoyable for the guests.

-- Give a deeper understanding of how can they can make a difference through acts of charity. A fun way to introduce children to charity is World Vision Gifts (www.worldvision.ca/gifts). Kids can also carry their own change to donate to charities collecting money in malls and shopping centres.

-- Volunteer as a family, perhaps visit a local homeless shelter, stop by a retirement home, donate food to a local food bank, or serve up a hot meal at a soup kitchen.

-- A homemade card is a great way for children to express thanks, and let people know they care about them. They can create cards for family, friends or teachers.