Exploring gratitude can help children immensely with their self-confidence and various other aspects of life. It involves reflection which can help children to see that they are loved and cared for. It also is an important social skill as it shows others that they’re appreciated and encourages children to be kind in return which can help them in forming relationships with others. Here are a few ideas that we’ve put together with the help of a private school in Ireland on how you can explore gratitude with your child.
Saying Thank You
The easiest way to show someone that you’re grateful is to say thank you. You can get your child in the habit of doing this by reminding them to in your presence.
Journaling to Explore Gratitude
Journaling has many amazing benefits for children. It can help them with their writing skills and various aspects of school. It also can help children with self-reflection and to think about what they have to be grateful for. Unlike the other ideas suggested, this takes a more private approach and is something that can be done quite easily.
Write Thank You Notes
A handwritten note carries thought and sentiment. It’s a nice way to show someone that you appreciate them.
Do Good in Return
Doing good for others in return can show gratitude and help foster good relationships. A way that children can do this is by paying attention to their friends and those around them to see if there’s anything that they can help with.
Look for Ways to Give Back
We have plenty of things that we no longer use or have space for. For your child that may be their toys and old clothes that can be given to charity. Having a declutter and donating your old belongings can show children how much they have compared to those that are less fortunate and can teach them about the importance of helping others. The good feeling that they get can also show them that it’s better to give than it is to receive.
Volunteering
There’s a lot in our day to day that we have to be grateful for. Simple things which we take for granted like food and shelter. Charity and taking time to understand what life is like for others can help put things into perspective for children and allow them to develop a deeper appreciation for what they have. Volunteering and supporting a local cause are good ways to highlight the issues facing the world around us.
Saying Grace
If you don’t already, saying grace is a lovely way that you can reflect on all the things that you have to be grateful for. You don’t need to be religious. It’s something that anyone can do and involves taking a moment to think about how privileged you are before eating.
Gratitude Jar
If your child prefers, they can write these down and place their notes into a jar. This will act as a reminder of how loved they are.
In conclusion
These are just a few of the ways that you can help your child reflect on the things that they have to be thankful for and exercise gratitude. As well as saying thank you and looking at ways to give back, start at home and remember to thank each other. Although you’re proud and appreciate your child for all the little things that they do, it’s important that you also communicate your gratitude. Remembering to say thank you for their part in doing the chores, or doing as they are told, can make your child themselves feel valued and learn how to thank others.
