November 2007 Parent Newsletter
Happy Thanksgiving: Teaching Children Gratitude
Danke. Grazie. Merci. Gracias. Ghu long khu me-ah.
Bïyan bolzïn. Shukran. Thank you.In any language, showing appreciation by saying “thank you” is the foundation for gratitude and good manners. As a parent, you’ve probably already faced the daunting challenge of rearing thankful children in today’s “give me, give me” world. However, it’s possible to meet that challenge head on by teaching them how to show their appreciation. Start with gifts. Teach them to say thank you verbally, whether over a long-distance telephone call or in person, and teach them to write thank-you notes within a week of receiving a gift. Explain the importance of a gift’s meaning, not its value. Raising thankful kids becomes easier once you teach them to appreciate any gift, no matter the size or price tag.
Holidays are a good time to remember the reasons each family member is thankful. Kids mirror their parents’ behavior, so the more you show appreciation and gratitude for something thoughtful they’ve done, praise your friends for their assistance and show respect to everyone you encounter in your daily life, you will raise thankful children.
Volunteering
It’s important for children to understand their obligation to help those less fortunate. So many community organizations need volunteers, and you will set an ideal example for your children if you volunteer together. You can do something as simple as filling small gift bags with art supplies, stuffed animals and homemade cards for hospitalized children. Or guests at your child’s next birthday party can bring items to be donated to a local organization, like the humane society. After all, does your child really need more toys?
Get your kids hooked on helping. The good that people do, while often unnoticed, is all around us and needs to be held high as an example for children. This will teach them to give thanks for kindness received and the satisfaction of kindness given.
Teaching Gratitude
Giving thanks is not only reserved for Thanksgiving. Here are a few tips to try at home.
- Say goodnight by sharing what you were thankful for that day.
- Keep a Gratitude Calendar or Journal in the kitchen and ask your kids to contribute to it daily.
- Always explain the bright side of any situation.
- Encourage older kids (8-12) to keep a personal journal in which they explore a situation from several points of view.
- Assign chores so your kids realize their contribution to the family is significant.
- Contrast your family with those less fortunate. Help your child see first-hand those in your community who don’t have homes, are hospitalized or must eat at food kitchens.
Gratitude is more than an attitude. Recent studies show that grateful people are happier, more resilient, and less depressed. They also have higher self-esteem and better relationships. These results prove that gratitude is more than polite manners and positive thinking. It is a way of life and a wonderful legacy to leave our children.
2008 Parent Newsletters
2007 Parent Newsletters