Exploring Gratitude with Your Child
Without gratitude, the world would undoubtedly be a much less joyful place! Not only would we feel less cheerful about those small, good aspects of life which make things nicer but we’d also be less inclined to help other people.
Gratitude is simply the act of noticing and responding positively to the good in life – whether it’s a sunny day or an extra-special present from someone. Showing gratitude is a good way to feel happier in general.
Spreading positivity through life is a powerful way to attract it back into your own life.
Showing children what gratitude means and how we can express it on a daily basis will help them when it comes to their own experiences at school or later in their adult lives.
Begin with the small things. Speak out about the things you’re grateful for. “I’m so grateful it’s a sunny day and we can go for our picnic!” It’s a simple phrase but one that a child can understand and share in. Even when things go wrong it’s possible to look on the bright side and find a positive in the negative. “Well it might be raining so we can’t go to the park, but I’m grateful we have this new board game to play!”
It’s important to model gratitude rather than instruct children to show it. Nobody likes the phrase “You should be grateful for…” It’s far more powerful for children to see you actively showing your own gratitude and they will naturally show their own.
Remember to show gratitude for your child’s actions too. Noticing the kindnesses they do for others is important. “I’m grateful I got to see you helping your friend today, because it shows me what a kind child you are” is a powerful statement and lets the child know that their actions don’t go unnoticed.
When your child begins school, they will have plenty of opportunity to show gratitude for the fun and enjoyable aspects of their day-to-day life there. This independent school in Potters Bar ensures that children are seen as individuals and each has the opportunity to excel in something they are good at. This sort of early, positive experience goes a long way to helping children maintain a positive outlook on life.
*This is a collaborative post
