“Piglet noticed that even though he had a Very Small Heart, it could hold a rather large amount of Gratitude.” A.A.Milne, Winnie the Pooh
How do we instil an attitude of gratitude with our kids? How do we encourage kids to feel gratitude in their lives instead of entitled?
First of all, what is gratitude? Gratitude is appreciation for every moment in your life. It is a feeling of thankfulness for the blessings we have received. It is also being grateful for the challenges and struggles and realising this is how we grow and become strong, capable and independent.
If my kids face a challenge at school I encourage them to look for the blessings that come out of that and this immediately lifts the mood and changes their mindset. Read Gratitude in Tough Times At School.
Gratitude goes beyond good manners, it becomes a lifestyle.
We as parents can lead by example and look for ways to make gratitude a habit in our lives.
Here are some prompts to ask your kids (and yourself) every day, that can create a discussion around gratitude;
What is one thing you are grateful for today?
What makes you happy when you feel down?
What is a sound you are grateful for?
Who is someone who has really helped you this week?
What is something that comes easily for you that might be hard for others?
What was the best part of your day?
What is something you love about your Dad? What is a service you gave that made you feel good? What is something you own that you are grateful for?
What is something that makes your life easier?
What made you smile today?
What is something beautiful about where you live?
“Make it a habit to tell people thank you. To express your appreciation, sincerely and without the expectation of anything in return. Truly appreciate those around you, and you’ll soon find many others around you. Truly appreciate life, and you’ll find that you have more of it.” -Ralph Marston
Start each day with a grateful heart.
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