The holidays are a time for family, friends and giving thanks. Unfortunately, with all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy for kids to get caught up in the materialism of it all. But, as parents, we can help them learn the value of gratitude by teaching them to be thankful for what they have. Here are some tips on instilling gratitude in your kids this holiday season.
Talk about what gratitude is and why it’s important
Gratitude is the appreciation for kindness and happiness bestowed upon us. When we take the time to recognise our blessings, it helps us to cultivate feelings of joy and contentment. Being grateful forces us to remember how much beauty there is in the world and within our lives. No matter how small or fleeting these moments may be. By taking a few moments each day to be thankful for what we have instead of focusing on what we lack, we can help spread happiness around ourselves and influence those around us in a positive way. Expressing gratitude is an important life skill that can not only increase well-being but strengthen relationships as well.
Grateful people are happier and healthier
It has long been said that gratitude is one of the most powerful emotions, and now there’s science to back it up. Studies have shown that people who consistently express gratitude feel happier and more content and experience fewer physical ailments. Even something as simple as a daily gratitude practice – writing down three things you’re thankful for can boost overall well-being. So, it’s no surprise that the most grateful individuals often feel the healthiest – both mentally and physically. If your child doesn’t already have a daily gratitude practice, why not start today? You are sure to reap the positive rewards!
Ways to help instil gratitude in kids
Teaching gratitude to children is a significant family value that can help to create healthy minds and habits for years to come! A great way for family members to instil a sense of appreciation in kids is by teaching them to write thank-you notes after receiving gifts or for acts of kindness.
Family time can also be a powerful tool for instilling good manners and thanking family members. Whether it’s preparing meals together, sharing family stories, playing games, or making crafts – family time offers an ideal opportunity for families to show each other love and gratitude in meaningful ways.
Activities the whole family can do together to practice gratitude
Practising gratitude as a family can be one of the most rewarding things you can do to nurture the bond between family members. Find activities that everybody likes and those that will challenge each member’s imagination. Start by having dinner around the table, where each person goes around and talks about something they are grateful for.
Have a “No Complaining Day” where nobody is allowed to complain. Instead, words of appreciation should be expressed in all conversations. Families could also create a memory wall outside their house where every drawing or photo could represent an event, gesture or experience of something they are thankful for. Get creative!
Once in a while, try going outside and starting an adventure together. This can be a walk through nature or visiting different local places such as museums, galleries or libraries with the objective of planning activities that promote gratitude.
Collaborate on random acts of kindness. Gather everyone together and have good bonding times with these meaningful activities — your endeavour deserves all the positivity it brings!
Showing appreciation to others
Showing appreciation to others doesn’t have to require a big gesture. Volunteering your time or skillset is a great way to demonstrate how much you value the person you’re showing appreciation for. Taking the time to help in their organisation, engage in a group project, or check in occasionally makes meaningful impacts. If that isn’t possible, something as simple as an unexpected gift basket, flowers, handwritten note, or just dedicating a kind word goes a long way! These small tokens of appreciation can prove that we can show love and gratitude to those around us. Not just on special occasions but for everyday moments of kindness.
Reflect on what you’re thankful for this holiday season
As the holiday season approaches, it’s a great time to pause and reflect on what we are grateful for. When we appreciate our blessings – big or small – it helps us stay present at the moment and enjoy our lives more fully. But, unfortunately, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and forget how much we have to be thankful for. So, this year, take a few moments and think about what you appreciate most. Whether it’s spending time with friends and family, having a job to pay the bills, or maybe even just living in an area with good weather – recognising that you are fortunate can go a long way toward giving you peace of mind this holiday season.
The holidays are a time for giving, and what better way to give back than by showing gratitude to those around us? Being grateful makes us happier and healthier people, so it’s worth taking the time to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Luckily, there are many ways to do this with your family – from writing thank-you notes to volunteering together. We hope you’ll take some time this holiday season to reflect on all the things you’re thankful for and share that appreciation with the people in your life. And don’t forget, our Gratitude Journal is a great way to get started!
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