Despite all your talk about the true meaning of the holidays (giving to others, being with family and friends), you suspect that your little elves have visions of presents dancing in their heads.

Make the lesson stick with help from iVolunteer.org, a new website that sources SoCal volunteer opportunities and shares the details on where, when, and how you can donate family time to causes and organizations you admire.

Pick from thousands of options, including cleaning beaches, caring for animals, and feeding the hungry. You can search by cause, age group, and neighborhood, so you’re sure to find the right fit for your brood.

Still have to stuff their stockings? The Get & Give section highlights gifts that donate a percentage of the purchase price to charity.

Now that’s something to celebrate.

For more information, go to ivolunteer.org.

HOLD ON
Roller Coaster Ridin’ Santa
What: Ride the famous coaster-over-the-ocean with the jolly old man himself.
Why: Santa meets Santa Monica.
When: Mon.-Fri., noon-9 p.m.; Sat., noon-midnight.
Where: Pacific Park, 380 Santa Monica Pier, at Ocean Ave. (310-260-8744). Adults and children, $5 per ride.

WATCH
The Nutcracker
What: Journey to magical realms where mischievous mice battle toy soldiers, snowflakes dance, and Clara’s dolls come to life.
Why: A perfect show for your twinkle toes.
When: Fri., 2 p.m.; Sun., 1 & 5 p.m.
Where: Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., at N. Aviation Blvd. (310-937-6607). Tickets online at losangelesballet.org. Adults and children, $30-$95. Children under 12 are 30 percent off with code FAMC.

Photo: Janelle Jones