Teaching Gratitude
Teaching Our Kids Gratitude
In a world where new toys, gadgets, and distractions are just a click away, raising grateful kids can feel like an uphill climb. But gratitude is more than just saying “thank you” — it’s a way of seeing the world. When kids learn to appreciate what they have, they grow up more resilient, empathetic, and joyful.
I was talking to my mom recently about my four-year-old’s ungrateful attitude lately. As a parent, it can be disheartening when you try to teach them “please” and “thank you” and to be happy with what they have, only to be met with “I didn’t want that” or “I don’t like that.” She reminded me that most kids go through that stage at some point. While I do understand our kids are growing up in a “right now” world, I want to make sure I am modeling gratitude so when we get through this “stage,” he’s more appreciative. Thus began my journey to find ways I can teach gratitude more consistently to our children.
Here are some simple ways we can nurture gratitude in our children:
1. Model Gratitude Every Day
Kids learn by watching us. When we pause to say “I’m so thankful for this meal” or “I really appreciate how you helped me today”, we show them that gratitude isn’t just words — it’s a lifestyle.
We’ve been in our new home for about 6 months now, and I often pull into the garage when the boys are with me and say “Thank you Jesus for our beautiful home!” Now, without prompting, my four-year-old will do the same during his nighttime prayers.
2. Create Gratitude Rituals
A bedtime gratitude moment works wonders. Ask, “What’s one good thing that happened today?” or keep a family gratitude jar where everyone writes little notes to drop in throughout the week. Reading them together becomes a joyful tradition.
I want to begin each morning with something we are thankful for and end the day on the same note. I think it will be a great habit for our family!
“Sow an act, reap a habit.”
3. Encourage Thank-You Notes
Handwritten notes may feel old-fashioned, but they teach thoughtfulness. When your child receives a gift, guide them in writing or drawing a thank-you card. It helps them reflect on the kindness behind the gift, not just the gift itself.
4. Give Back Together
Acts of service deepen appreciation. Volunteer as a family, donate toys to children in need, or bake cookies for friends. When kids see how their actions impact others, gratitude grows naturally.
5. Shift the Focus from “More” to “Enough.”
It’s easy for kids to get caught up in “I want”. Gently guide conversations toward “I’m glad we have”. Instead of emphasizing what’s missing, help them notice the simple joys — a cozy blanket, a good laugh, or time together.
Definitely been having a lot more conversations like this lately.
6. Practice Patience and Presence
Gratitude often blooms in quiet moments. Encourage slowing down: watch a sunset, savor a meal, or talk about the highlights of the day. Being present helps children notice life’s little gifts.
For us, this started with cutting out iPad and video game time. We tried setting timers, but that didn’t work, so we just removed them altogether. We stopped turning on the DVD player in our vehicle and started talking about all the things around us when we drive.
Final Thought
Gratitude doesn’t happen overnight — it’s a muscle we help our kids build over time. By modeling it, celebrating it, and weaving it into daily life, we give them a great tool!
💛 Gratitude Practices for Moms
1. Morning Gratitude List
Before the day takes off, jot down three things you’re grateful for—even simple ones like “hot coffee,” “kids playing peacefully,” or “a quiet moment.”
It sets a positive tone for the day.
2. Mindful Pauses
Take 30 seconds during the day to pause, breathe, and notice something good happening—your kids laughing, a meal on the table, or even just silence for a moment.
3. Gratitude Partner
Share daily gratitudes with a friend, spouse, or fellow mom. Texting one thankful thing to each other keeps you accountable and lifts your mood.
4. End-of-Day Reflection
Before bed, think of three wins or blessings from the day. Even if it was a rough day, focusing on positives helps your brain wind down in gratitude.
5. Modeling for Your Kids
Say out loud the things you’re thankful for throughout the day. Kids pick up on your example and learn that gratitude is a way of life, not just an activity.
✨ Final Thoughts
Gratitude doesn’t erase the challenges of motherhood, but it gives us—and our kids—perspective. When we practice gratitude together, it builds a stronger family culture of appreciation and joy.
