3-6 Year Old Service Ideas

30 Meaningful Service Ideas for Kids Ages 3–6

Preschoolers and early elementary kids are naturally generous, curious, and full of energy—perfect ingredients for acts of service! Ages 3 to 6 is a wonderful time to begin nurturing a heart for others. Whether it's helping around the house, spreading cheer in the neighborhood, or caring for the environment, there are so many simple, joy-filled ways for young children to give back.

Here are 30 service projects perfect for children ages 3–6 that build empathy, confidence, and kindness one small act at a time.

1. Help bake cookies and deliver them to a neighbor.
   
   

2. Make a handmade ornament to give away.
   
   

3. Place canned goods in a food pantry bin.
   
   

4. Draw Christmas cards for nursing home residents.
   
   

5. Help wrap small gifts for family or friends.
   
   

6. Pick a toy from their collection to donate.
   
   

7. Sing a Christmas song for a friend or relative.
   
   

8. Put birdseed or corn out for winter animals.
   
   

9. Help set the table for a holiday meal.
   
   

10. Tie a ribbon around a small gift or treat bag.
    
    

11. Hand cocoa or cider to guests.
    
    

12. Put change into a Salvation Army or charity kettle.
    
    

13. Deliver a thank-you card to the mail carrier or delivery driver.
    
    

14. Help carry groceries for a neighbor.
    
    

15. Decorate a paper bag for food donations.
    
    

16. Place warm socks into a donation box.
    
    

17. Help tidy up toys at home or at a friend’s house.
    
    

18. Give a handmade card to a teacher or coach.
    
    

19. Deliver pet treats to an animal shelter.
    
    

20. Water a neighbor’s plants while they’re away.
    
    

21. Invite a friend to play who might be lonely.
    
    

22. Pick flowers or greenery for someone special.
    
    

23. Help pack a small care package.
    
    

24. Put holiday stamps on cards.
    
    

25. Make a kindness chain by adding paper links for each good deed.
    
    

26. Sweep a walkway with a small broom.
    
    

27. Place a candy cane surprise on a neighbor’s doorknob.
    
    

28. Choose a family to pray for at bedtime.
    
    

29. Decorate cookies to give to others.
    
    

30. Share a favorite toy or game during playtime.

Kids ages 3–6 are eager to be helpful and feel a strong sense of pride in their accomplishments. By giving them small, meaningful ways to serve others, you're helping them develop empathy, gratitude, and compassion that will grow with them.