Rudeness seems to rule the day.
But we can battle this when we grow gratefulness in our kids. Gratefulness and thankfulness add to our feelings of satisfaction, increase happiness, provide a positive perspective, and strengthen resiliency.
Not bad results.
Here are 4 ways to grow gratefulness in your kids.
1. Model: When we demonstrate thankfulness and gratefulness rather than grumbling and complaining we positively impact our children and their mental health. Using please, thank you, you are welcome while showing appreciation for another changes the tone in the home.
2. Talk: Express thankfulness out loud, “God gave a a beautiful day.” “I felt so thankful when your dad held the door for me when my hands were full.”
3. Ask: At dinner or before bed have each family member share a thankful moment, “What were you thankful for today?”
4. Remember: Before a gift exchange time remind your child that how much they like the gift is less important than remembering the person who gave the gift. “People are more important than presents.”
Whether the gift s loved or not is not the focus. Knowing that person took time and money to find something for you is the the main thing. Always say thank you.
Click here for a short video to watch regarding these 4 gratefulness growers.
Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. Psalm 147:7
© LoriWildenberg. All rights reserved.
About the Author
Lori Wildenberg is a licensed parent and family educator, parent coach, and co-founder of 1Corinthians13 Parenting.com. She has written 6 books including Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home; The Messy Life of Parenting: Powerful and Practical Ways to Strengthen Family Connections; and her most recent book, Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation. Contact Lori for your next event or for parent consulting or parent training courses. Lori can also be found mentoring over at the MOMS Together Group on Facebook.
