Igniting Gratitude: Fostering Positivity in Your Family
Amidst the whirlwind of daily life, there’s a game-changer that can transform your family dynamic – gratitude. It’s not just a seasonal posture; it’s a powerhouse that can shape your kids into more resilient and positive humans. So, get ready, parents, because we’re about to dive into some awesome activities that’ll turn your household into a gratitude powerhouse.
1. Make a Gratitude Jar
Imagine this – a jar so cool your kids can’t resist. Get them involved in dressing up a gratitude jar with whatever art supplies you can find. Put the jar in a prominent spot, and let the gratitude flow. Family members toss in notes about what they’re thankful for – daily, weekly, or whenever you’re feeling grateful. At the end of the month, gather ’round and soak in the good vibes as you read off your notes.
How to:
- Grab your materials – jar, paper, pens, and any art supplies you can find.
- Deck out the jar with your crew.
- Lay down the gratitude law and explain the drill.
- Set a date to spill the gratitude beans.
2. Craft a Gratitude Tree
Get ready to bring the great outdoors inside with a gratitude tree that’s as awesome as your family. Craft a tree trunk and branches on a massive canvas. Cut out leaves, and instruct your kids to jot down anything they’re thankful for. Stick those leaves on the branches and you’ve got a gratitude tree that’s growing good vibes faster than you can say “thankful.”
How to:
- Art supplies – construction paper, markers, scissors, and tape.
- Place the tree trunk somewhere in your house – perhaps a prominent spot.
- Go leaf crazy with what you’re thankful for.
- Stick up your leaves and watch the tree of thanks blossom.
3. Write Thank You Letters to Family Members
Time to unleash the power of the pen! Encourage your young scribes to whip up thank you letters to family members… just because. No occasion, just an outpouring of gratitude. This isn’t just about writing – it’s about remembering to tell those incredible people in your life that you appreciate them. Teach your kids to spread the love and make someone’s day with a heartfelt letter.
How to:
- Set up your writing HQ – paper, pens, and stickers for added flair.
- Talk about why expressing gratitude is important.
- Aid the little ones with the writing if needed.
- Hand-deliver or mail your letters of gratitude.
4. Read Books About Gratitude
Got little readers? Grab some age-appropriate books that dive into the joy of being thankful. Reading together isn’t just about stories; it’s about laying the groundwork for gratitude discussions that’ll stick. Here are a few young reader recommendations:
- Bear Says Thanks – by Karma Wilson,
- Miss Tizzy – by Libba Moore Gray
- Growing in Gratitude – by Mary K Mouler
- The Grumblers Guide to Giving Thanks – by Dustin Crowe
5. Give to a Charity
Move beyond being grateful for what you have and teach your kids the thrill of giving. A wonderful organization to give to this season is Operation Christmas Child, but take some time to think and pray on it as a family.
6. Go on a Gratitude Scavenger Hunt
Lead your family or group of friends in a Gratitude Scavenger Hunt. Tack this onto your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving activities for an ounce of fun and competition. Below are a few prompts to get you started.
- Something that makes you happy
- Something to give someone else to make them smile
- One thing you can smell
- Something that’s your favorite color
- Something you are thankful for in nature
- Something you can use to make a gift for someone
- Something that is useful to you
There you have it – a roadmap to turning your family into a gratitude powerhouse. These activities aren’t just about saying “thanks.” They’re about creating a culture of appreciation that’ll stick with your kids as they grow. So try out one – or two – or all of them! Let us know how it goes!