In light of the holiday season, teaching our children about gratitude is a great way to share and spread positivity to others. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude is linked to improved sleep, reduced stress and anxiety, increased happiness, and increased emotional resilience.
There are many different ways parents can encourage gratitude in their children:
- Start simple! Anytime your child does something helpful, point it out.
- Encourage them to say “thank you” as a verbal expression of gratitude.
- Be a role model and allow your children to hear you talk about how grateful or appreciative you are for something or someone else. This can include things we often might take for granted such as daily meals, water, and/or electricity.
- Involve them in acts of kindness by visiting an animal shelter, volunteering at a holiday food drive, or donating a toy to Toys for Tots (or any other charity).
- Practice writing thank you cards/notes to friends and family members.
- When your child is upset, challenge them to focus on something positive in the situation.
- Create a routine. Have a regular conversation at the dinner table or before bed about one thing you both are grateful for that day.
Make the holiday season even more cheerful by remembering to practice gratitude wherever you go and encouraging your little ones to do so too!
With the fall break approaching, be sure to check out our other blogs about the importance of open-ended play and ways to practice fine motor skills!
