As a mum to three wonderful kids, I’ve always strongly emphasised teaching gratitude. It’s a parenting journey I take seriously, and it warms my heart when people compliment me on how polite and thoughtful my children are. Gratitude isn’t something that comes naturally to kids; it’s a mindset we, as parents, must help them cultivate. In this article, I’ll share how I’ve taught my children the importance of gratitude and the simple tips that might work for your family.
First Things First: What Gratitude Means
Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”; it’s about helping children understand the needs and feelings of others. For me, gratitude means teaching my kids to see the good around them, even in life’s smallest moments. It’s about showing appreciation for people who help, like a neighbour lending a hand or a friend giving a thoughtful gift.
The start of a new year is the perfect time to foster an attitude of gratitude in young children. It’s a fresh opportunity to reflect on the good around us and set positive habits for the months ahead. But remember, teaching gratitude takes time and consistency.
Why Teach Children About Gratitude?
An attitude of gratitude makes children happier and healthier. Studies show that kids who practice gratitude experience better mental health and are more empathetic. When you teach your children about gratitude, you’re setting them up to become healthier adults who appreciate the world around them.
Plus, gratitude can help children feel connected to family, friends, and the community. In our home, we regularly reinforce the importance of gratitude through fun ways that make them feel involved and valued.
How to Teach Gratitude: Tips from My Home to Yours
Here’s how I’ve helped my children practice gratitude over the years:
1. Start a Gratitude Jar
A gratitude jar is a simple yet powerful way to teach kids about gratitude. Once a week, gather around the tea table to discuss what you’re grateful for. Each family member shares something meaningful, from “I’m grateful for a sunny day” to “I’m thankful for Mum’s cookies,” and writes it down on a piece of paper to place in the jar. This habit helps reflect on the good in and creates a lovely family bonding moment. It’s a fun and thoughtful activity that even young children enjoy.
2. Model Gratitude Every Day
Kids learn by example, so it’s important to model gratitude in your own life. Whether it’s expressing gratitude to your partner for making dinner or thanking your child for helping tidy up, let them see you being grateful.
I often express my gratitude out loud, like saying, “I’m so thankful we have this time together as a family.” It’s a small action, but it reinforces how gratitude can be part of everyday life.
3. Teach Kids to Give Back
To help your child understand the importance of gratitude, encourage your child to get involved in giving back. This could be donating toys they no longer use, baking cookies for a neighbour, or making handmade cards for family members during the holiday season.
This shows gratitude, cultivates compassion, and helps kids be grateful for what they have.
Create a Gratitude Practice That Sticks
Teaching gratitude isn’t a one-off lesson; it’s a habit that grows over time. Here are some additional ideas to help your child develop a lasting gratitude practice:
- Start a Gratitude Journal: Encourage your child to write down three things they’re grateful for daily.
- Say Thank You Often: Teach your children to say “thank you” sincerely, whether to a teacher, a shop assistant, or a family member.
How Gratitude Has Made Us a Happier Family
In our home, we’ve found that gratitude creates a positive mindset that makes us all happier. It’s helped my children see the good around them, develop empathy, and appreciate life’s blessings.
So, if you’re looking for ways to teach your children gratitude, my top tip is to make it part of your daily routine. Whether through a gratitude jar, journaling, or giving back, there are many fun ways to help kids develop this important habit.
Teaching kids gratitude isn’t just about raising polite children; it’s about raising happier, healthier adults who see the beauty in the world around them. And when people tell me how kind and thoughtful my kids are, I know all the effort has been worth it.
Let’s make this upcoming holiday season an opportunity to foster gratitude in our homes and raise a generation of grateful, compassionate individuals.