Share a smile with a street kid today! :)

A few ways i'd like to share that could bring those bright flashing smiles on the cute faces of street kids, without giving them money:

1. Volunteer
There isn’t any way to avoid a child’s eyes looking up at you, an amputee holding out an empty cup. So what if you are not a part of some Organization, it surely does not mean you can’t reach out!!!

A direct method I find is to head over to a local temple or a slum and ask them if they need any help or know schools where you can take part.
One can also search for nearest community organization over the internet & become a part of it, though not always full time.

2. Devote A Moment
The simplest, sweetest & the most valuable thing you can give to a child is time. Rather than brushing them off, spend some time & show interest asking them their names, what they like to do, where do they study etc.
Generosity doesn’t have to mean giving away things. Sharing a bit of yourself, opening a window into your own world, is a good place to begin with.

3. Eat Together
If you’ve made a connection with a particular child, enjoy a small ice cream at a local eatery.
However, remain cautious when extending the invitation, as one may end up meaning that you’re taking the entire community out for a treat :D

4. Play With Pictures
Another great tool is a cam. Kids love to ham it up and in my experience, they will often burst into excited shrieks and start making funny faces, flashing “peace signs” or doing group photo ops. If you can, show them the results, and guaranteed you’ll have a ton of kids squealing with excitement and eager to do another round of wacky poses.

5. Create a Painting
No worries if you are not artistic type, get involved in some kind of spontaneous “arts”. Gather the kids, get a few postcards and funky coloring pens.

Leave a part of yourself behind by doing a group drawing session on a postcard. Any form of nature/cartoon drawing and thus providing a greater picture beyond the slums. Plus it will also let their creative juices flowing.

6. Take interest in Local Slang
Sometimes its fun for both the parties when you show interest & let the kids teach you some of the local lingo. In turn you’ll gain a few friends and make them feel like they’ve done something special.

I believe handing out a few coins is not an appropriate act since that often goes to their master/parents who spend it on alcohol or illegal substance. Rather find some alternatives like wrapped packets of biscuits, or books or any other learning paraphernalia. Remember "you may not be able to help everyone, but everyone can surely help someone" :)