on November 6, 2018
You live an abundant life. Just the fact that you are sitting in front of a screen somewhere, reading this blog post, means that you are luckier than most people in the world. You can read, for one! You also have access to technology and enough free time to read what I’m sharing with you today. And I’m sure you have many more blessings in your life beyond those things!
But, how often do you remember to pause and give thanks for the many wonderful components of your life? If you struggle, just imagine how difficult it is for your child to remember to be grateful!
Many children have a tendency to take things for granted. If your child enjoys regular meals, a comfortable home, the occasional toy or treat, and adults who care about their wellbeing, they’re luckier than a lot of other children. That’s why it can be incredibly frustrating for parents when they hear their children complain about things that (in our minds!) are not a big deal:
“I wanted a blue truck, not a red truck!”
“I don’t like the crust on my toast!”
“I didn’t get to see the movie I wanted to see!”
Though it may be difficult to instill a sense of gratitude in your child 100% of the time, don’t give up! Your modeling and gentle instruction can do worlds of good, even if it isn’t always apparent. Try these simple actions:
1. Model gratitude
Children are sponges. If they see you thanking others, appreciating a meal, or looking on the bright side in a sub-optimal situation, they are likely to do the same. For example, next time you start the car and discover there’s no gas in the tank, don’t only voice your frustration. Instead, say, “Looks like we’ll have to make a quick gas stop. That’s frustrating, but at least we have a car, right?”
2. Volunteer
Sign up for volunteer opportunities at soup kitchens, clothing drives, or hospitals. Enable your child to help others who are less fortunate than they. Not only is this a lesson in gratitude, it is also a lesson in the value of serving others.
3. Read books about gratitude
The Giving Tree, Have You Filled Your Bucket Today?, and The Little Book of Gratitude are all great books about being thankful. Read with your child, or (for older children) encourage them to read the story and then discuss it with you.
4. Talk about gratitude
Make gratitude a regular topic of discussion. When you’re eating dinner together, ask, “What are you most thankful for today?”
5. Gift a gratitude journal
Your child may like the idea of keeping a gratitude journal—something they can write in every day and look at whenever they are feeling down in the dumps. Give them a personalized journal and encourage them to write at least one or two things that they are grateful for every day.
Your conscious efforts can work wonders when it comes to fostering a sense of gratitude in your child. Express thanks often, look on the bright side, volunteer, and encourage “appreciation talk.” You may even discover that your own world will become a little rosier once you approach it with gratitude in mind.