While being mindful of all the good things in life feels natural during the Thanksgiving season, it can be difficult to keep the spirit going the rest of the year, especially for kids. If you are striving to instill a natural sense of gratitude in your children, check out the tips below for ideas on how to encourage your kids to give thanks 365 days of the year!
Each holiday season brings many opportunities to reflect on the things for which we are grateful. These moments may present themselves while spending extra time with family and friends, going around the dinner table talking about what we’re thankful for, or simply enjoying the fall weather. While being mindful of all the good things in life feels natural during the Thanksgiving season, it can be difficult to keep the spirit going the rest of the year, especially for kids. If you are striving to instill a natural sense of gratitude in your children, check out the tips below for ideas on how to encourage your kids to give thanks 365 days of the year!
The best way to inspire your children to adopt an attitude of gratitude is to set a positive example. Avoid any temptation to complain, try to point out the positive things in a negative situation. It is important to make an effort to regularly acknowledge the things you’re happy about. Creating a home environment that fosters positivity rather than a negative outlook will inevitably influence your child’s attitude going forward.
Sometimes the holidays can feel like they’re all about presents and purchases – but why not give back instead? Volunteer at a shelter, get involved with a program that provides Christmas gifts to struggling families, or simply drop some change into a charity’s holiday collection plate. Not only will these things make a positive impact on others, but they will also help provide your children with a tangible way to recognize their own good fortune and use it to help their community. Giving back shouldn’t be limited to the holiday season, though. Encourage your whole family to stay involved even when January rolls around!
Encouraging gratitude within your home doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a few simple acts can change your children’s outlooks, give them a new perspective, and create a sense of thankfulness and empathy for others that will serve them well throughout their lives!
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