Being grateful is a valuable like skill for children and adults. Its builds empathy, kindness and resilience, as well as creates a strong foundation for positive thinking and healthy relationships. Our job as a parent or a caregiver is to help little ones understand and practice gratefulness not just on Thanksgiving but every day.
- Show gratitude every day. Children learn by watching others. When you routinely say “thank you” and sincerely show gratitude, your child will notice and follow your lead.
- Ask your child what he/she is thankful for. Pick a quite time during the day – maybe in the car on the way home or at dinner – and talk about what he or she is thankful. Encourage your child to start small, such as I am thankful, we played outside today. Or I am thankful we had my favorite snack at daycare. Be sure to share things that you are thankful for as well.
- Give Back. Find a simple, age-appropriate way to give back to others in your community. Maybe you could donate toys or food items to a local nonprofit or bake a treat for a neighbor. Encourage your child to be involved in picking the activities.
- Celebrate Traditions with Gratitude. The holidays, not just Thanksgiving, are a great time to encourage your children to focus on thankfulness. Start a new tradition where everyone tells one thing they are thankful for during family celebrations, or maybe even draw a “leaf” to create a “Thankful tree.”
- Praise Your Child. When you see your child showing gratitude, be sure to praise them and celebrate the successes.
- Be Patient. It can take time and patience to teach children to practice gratefulness routinely. Consistency, along with modeling and encouragement, are keys to teaching your child to be grateful.
What does your family do to show gratitude or giving back? Send us an email with photos if possible. We would love to hear from you!