Being grateful for the good things in life is important for children, because it can help them feel more content in life. With this in mind, it is a good idea for parents to explore gratitude with their children so that they can learn to appreciate what they have and what they’re given, whether it be a birthday gift or food on their table. Read on for some advice on how to start from a girls’ school in Beaconsfield.
Talk About What You’re Grateful For
Try and find time to have regular conversations as a family about how fortunate you are. Perhaps you could take it in turns at mealtimes sharing something that happened during the day that you’re grateful for. It could be something as simple as someone making you a cup of tea or giving you a lift to work. If your child is struggling to think of something, ask them if anyone has done anything kind for them, like a friend sharing a snack at break time or a teacher explaining something they were stuck on. By having these types of conversations, gratitude will soon become a habit for your family members.
Give Back
Another way to help your child understand how fortunate they are and be grateful for this is to encourage them to give back. Perhaps they could offer to help an elderly neighbour carry in their food shop or volunteer raising money for a local charity. The trick is to help them understand that other people aren’t always as lucky as they are and that is something they should appreciate. It will also help them empathise with others.
Show New Ways to Say Thank You
Help your child understand that showing you are grateful for something can be expressed in different ways than simply saying “thank you”. For instance, your child could send a card to all of the people who attended their birthday party, saying that they appreciate their friends for taking the time to celebrate with them. They could give a gift, like flowers, to their teacher at the end of term, thanking them for all of their hard work.
