Be grateful! Show gratitude! Express gratitude! While these concepts are critical for everyone to grasp, children may need to see and experience gratitude in action to better understand the word and its importance.
With Thanksgiving (quickly!) approaching, we wanted to share some easy ways to help you talk about being grateful with your kids, as well as ways in which you can practice it at home and in your community.
1. Volunteer together.
If your kids are old enough, you can find a local organization where you both can give back to those in need. In Westchester County, this includes Feeding Westchester, United Way of Westchester, and Westchester Children’s Museum, among others. Volunteer New York also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, both seasonal and ongoing. Thanksgiving is also a great time to give back by serving meals or volunteering to help those in need. Check local listings, as many might have age minimums.
2. Write in a gratitude journal.
Have your kids write one thing a day that they are grateful for. It could be as simple as having them acknowledge they are grateful for having a home-cooked meal or a roof over their head. If your kids are too young to write, this could be part of their bedtime practice. Ask them to tell you one thing they are grateful for.
3. Read books.
Find age-appropriate books that highlight the importance of giving back and gratitude.
4. Send thank you notes.
A thank-you note is a special way to show appreciation. Have your kids practice this early on when they receive presents.
5. Practice gratefulness.
Kids learn by example. Make sure that you are practicing yourself. Sometimes, simply observing it is enough for them to model your behavior.
6. Watch programs that are uplifting and discuss gratitude.
Have a family movie night where you and your kids watch a show or movie about gratitude.
7. Read inspiring and uplifting stories.
Another way to instill gratitude at home is to teach your kids about the broader perspective of the human experience. Talk about people in need and the value of appreciation. A little goes a long way.
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