Gratitude is an elixir. It helps us to appreciate what is already good in our life (instead of overlooking it) and help us to get through not-so-great times. It is also linked to so many health and wellbeing benefits.<\/p>\n
Practicing gratitude \u2013 and it is something you need to do and practice \u2013 is great for adults, but it\u2019s also great for kids. It\u2019s something we can teach our kids every day.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s not about forcing them with saying things like \u2018you should be grateful!\u2019 It\u2019s about guiding them to make the practice of gratitude a normal way they live their life.<\/p>\n
Here are some ideas for teaching our kids gratitude:<\/p>\n
At bedtime or some other quiet time during the day, you can ask your child, \u2018What\u2019s something good that happened today?\u2019 Have a chat about it. Recognize it. Appreciate it.<\/p>\n
As part of family life, we can reinforce the importance of thanking those who help us. Remind your kids to say thanks and congratulate them when they do.<\/p>\n
Kids can help out around the house. Because that\u2019s what we do in our family: we help each other. We do things for each other to make this a nice place to live.<\/p>\n
Little kids are really good at noticing the little things: the lady bug on a leaf, the dog wagging it\u2019s tail, and the smell of spring. We can notice the little things too and share them with our kids.<\/p>\n
Kids need our love more than anything. Not endless rooms of stuff. Give them more love and less stuff.<\/p>\n
Our kids are watching and learning from us. If we practice gratitude, our kids will learn how to practice gratitude too.<\/p>\n
During those tough times. After those meltdowns. Once some sort of calm has returned. Talk about the positives. Find the good. Not in a superficial or \u2018let\u2019s-ignore-that-horrible-feeling\u2019 way. But in a gentle and genuine way. As a tonic.<\/p>\n
About The Author<\/strong><\/p>\n Jodie Benveniste is a psychologist, parenting author, TEDx speaker, and author of four parenting books, including\u00a0Intuitive Parenting: Unlocking the secrets to raising incredible kids.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n