Gratitude and Parenting: Raising Thankful Children

Gratitude is an essential value that can significantly shape a child’s character and outlook. As parents, fostering gratitude in children is a rewarding endeavor that involves leading by example and creating an environment where thankfulness is a daily practice. 

Start by modeling gratitude in your actions and words—express appreciation for grand gestures, everyday moments, and simple acts of kindness. Incorporate gratitude into daily routines, such as sharing something you’re thankful for at the dinner table or before bedtime. 

Encourage children to keep gratitude journals where they can reflect on the positive actions of their day. Celebrating acts of kindness and teaching children to recognize and acknowledge the efforts of others can also reinforce this value.

Ultimately, raising thankful children involves consistent effort and a nurturing approach. By instilling gratitude early on, parents can help children develop a positive, appreciative mindset that will benefit them throughout their lives.

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Author: Mike Balof

A retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Mike used to lay in bed at night and worry about what would happen if his plant closed or found himself without a job. One day his plant closed. Rather than panic and hysteria (OK, maybe a little) Mike found himself carried away on the adventure of his life. Mike started with the best job he ever had working at Home Depot. He spent 8 years working with job seekers at a local workforce center, helping them to find employment. He then started his own company developing courses, writing books and urging others to follow their own paths into the future. Mike holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training and a Bachelor of Business Management, earned through the University of Phoenix and an AAS degree in Electronics Systems Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Mike is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society.

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