November: Ways to teach thankfulness in a season of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to teach young children about gratitude and thankfulness. Instilling these values early on can help them grow into appreciative and empathetic individuals. Here are some creative and engaging ways to teach thankfulness to young children during the Thanksgiving season.

1. Gratitude Journals

Encourage your child to keep a gratitude journal. Each day, have them write or draw something they are thankful for. This daily practice helps them reflect on the positives in their lives and develops a habit of looking for things to appreciate.

2. Thankfulness Tree

Create a thankfulness tree using a small branch or a paper cutout. Have your child write what they are thankful for on paper leaves and attach them to the tree. This visual representation can grow throughout the season and serve as a beautiful reminder of the many blessings in their life.

3. Storytelling

Share stories about thankfulness and gratitude. Books like "The Thankful Book" by Todd Parr and "Bear Says Thanks" by Karma Wilson can be excellent resources. Discuss the stories with your child and ask them to share what they are thankful for.

4. Gratitude Jar

Set up a gratitude jar in your home. Encourage everyone in the family to write down things they are grateful for on slips of paper and put them in the jar. At the end of the month, read the notes together and reflect on the wonderful moments you've shared.

5. Acts of Kindness

Teach your child about gratitude through acts of kindness. Encourage them to help a neighbor, share toys with friends, or donate to those in need. Experiencing the joy of giving can help them understand and appreciate the importance of gratitude.

6. Thank You Notes

Help your child write thank you notes to family, friends, and teachers. This simple act can help them express their appreciation and understand the importance of acknowledging the kindness of others.

7. Family Gratitude Rituals

Incorporate gratitude into your family rituals. For example, during dinner, go around the table and have each family member say one thing they are thankful for. This not only teaches gratitude but also strengthens family bonds.

8. Gratitude Crafts

Engage your child in gratitude-themed crafts. Create thankfulness cards, paint gratitude rocks, or make a collage of things they are thankful for. Crafting can be a fun and tangible way for children to express their gratitude.

9. Model Thankfulness

Children learn a lot by observing the adults in their lives. Make sure to model thankfulness in your daily interactions. Express your gratitude often, say "thank you," and acknowledge the good things in your life.

10. Reflect on the Meaning of Thanksgiving

Discuss the history and meaning of Thanksgiving with your child. Explain why we celebrate this holiday and the importance of being thankful for what we have. This context can deepen their understanding and appreciation of the season.

Teaching thankfulness to young children during the Thanksgiving season can be both fun and meaningful. By incorporating these practices into your family's routine, you can help your child develop a lasting sense of gratitude. This Thanksgiving, take the opportunity to cultivate thankfulness in your home and create cherished memories together.

Mompreneur and Mayhem 

By Lila Taylor