Naturally, when there is a holiday or during holidays we put special emphasis on being thankful, but we can’t expect kids to be experts at showing gratitude if we don’t encourage and help them to practice it all year long. That was said by Carleton Kendrick, family therapist, coauthor of Take Out Your Nose Ring, Honey, We’re Going to Grandma’s and father of two. To help kids be thankful and express it on a regular basis:
Be grateful—every day. Before chowing down in the evening, go around the dinner table and have each family member talk about what they were thankful for that day. it doesn’t have to be a grand act. A bike ride with a friend or a beautiful fall day are worthy of appreciation.
Be a volunteer. Help kids become more conscious of others, especially those less fortunate. Make sandwiches and help distribute them at a homeless shelter, or offer to play cards or board games with residents in a nursing home.
Be empathetic. Remind kids to think about other people’s feelings and to imagine how they would want to be treated in someone else’s situation.
Be appreciative. Make a point of thanking people who help you, including store clerks, waitresses and fitting-room attendants. This sends the message to kids to value others. –Rachel Moser
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