As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, I think we as moms are always looking for practical ways to teach gratefulness to our children. How do I teach this concept to my children when some days I am struggling with the concept myself?
While trying to find the answer I did what every 21st century mother does, I googled it. My google search lead me to lots of articles and plenty of tips. The article that I liked the best was from PBS Parents called, 10 Ways to Raise a Grateful Kid By Homa Tavangar.
In the article the author outlines and explains ten ways to help instill an attitude of gratitude.
- Say “Thank you.”
- Live it.
- Teach through role play.
- Create daily or weekly routines.
- Give concrete examples.
- Set expectations when shopping.
- Make giving and volunteering a habit.
- Create gratitude gift lists.
- Thank those who serve.
- Be patient.
It’s important to remember that an attitude of gratitude doesn’t happen overnight but it happens over the course of a lifetime. Along the way remember to use your family, friends, fellow moms and sometimes even google to find resources, ideas, and tips.
I love the idea shared by “One Artsy Mama” to create a Thankful Pumpkin. All you need is a pumpkin, a sharpie and a grateful heart.
Please share your ideas and tips to the American Mother’s social media accounts using the hashtag #MomNation.
Michelle Wall, 2016 National Mother of the Year, is a Delaware mother of two. Michelle graduated from James Madison University (JMU) with a degree in Political Science and Political Communications. After graduating from JMU, she was chosen to be a Virginia Governor’s Fellow. She began her career at the Virginia Governor’s Office and has worked for North Carolina State University, the Raleigh News & Observer, and the Arizona Republic. Michelle is an alumnus of Leadership Delaware (2014) and a volunteer for the Greater Delaware Valley Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, where she was named the 2014 Volunteer of the Year.
