In a world that moves quickly and often focuses on what we don’t have, helping children develop a sense of gratitude can be incredibly grounding.
Gratitude isn’t about forcing children to say “thank you” on cue – it’s about nurturing an awareness of the people, moments and experiences that add meaning to their lives.
When explored gently and consistently, gratitude can support emotional wellbeing, empathy and resilience.
Why Gratitude Matters for Children
Research shows that practising gratitude can help children feel happier, more optimistic and better equipped to handle challenges. Grateful children are often more aware of others’ feelings and more likely to show kindness. Rather than comparing themselves to others, they learn to appreciate what they already have, which can be particularly valuable in today’s social-media-driven world.
Importantly, gratitude doesn’t come naturally to all children – it’s a skill that develops over time and with guidance.
Modelling Gratitude in Everyday Life
Children learn best by example. When adults openly express gratitude, children begin to mirror that behaviour.
This could be as simple as saying, “I’m really grateful we had time to walk together today,” or acknowledging small positives after a busy day.
Sharing your own moments of appreciation helps children understand that gratitude isn’t just for big events or gifts, but can be found in everyday experiences.
Simple Ways to Explore Gratitude Together
Gratitude doesn’t need to be a formal activity. Small, consistent practices can have a big impact:
- Gratitude chats: At bedtime or during dinner, ask your child to share one thing they enjoyed or felt thankful for that day.
- Gratitude journals: For older children, writing or drawing a few things they appreciate each week can be a calming and reflective habit.
- Thank you notes: Encouraging children to write or draw thank you cards helps them recognise the effort and kindness of others.
The key is to keep these moments relaxed and pressure-free.
Teaching Gratitude Through Challenges
It’s important to acknowledge that gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring difficult feelings. Children should always feel safe expressing frustration, sadness or disappointment.
Gratitude can sit alongside these emotions, helping children recognise that even on hard days, there may still be moments of comfort or support.
For example, after a challenging situation, you might gently ask, “Was there anything that helped make today a little easier?”
Encouraging Empathy and Perspective
Gratitude often grows alongside empathy. Talking about how others help us – teachers at your child’s school, friends, family members or community workers – can help children understand the wider world and their place within it.
Acts of kindness, such as donating toys or helping a neighbour, also reinforce appreciation through action.
Making Gratitude a Gentle Habit
Exploring gratitude with your child isn’t about perfection or constant positivity. It’s about creating space for reflection, appreciation and connection.
Over time, these small moments can shape how children view themselves, others and the world around them.
By approaching gratitude with patience and warmth, you’re giving your child a valuable tool they can carry with them well beyond childhood.