Connecting to Gratitude

We want to teach children that happiness does not depend on our environment, but on what is going on inside of us. We should practice being happy, joyful and peaceful for no apparent reason, and one of the best ways to do that is by practicing gratitude and being grateful for what we have.

When we are feeling down and a little bit blue, what can we do to pull ourselves out of it?

We can start leaning into positivity, by connecting to gratitude and listing all the things that we are thankful for. It is an incredible skill to have to be able to make yourself feel better by simply connecting to gratitude.

Parents need to lead by example. Implement and practice this in your daily life so your children can learn from you. When you wake up in the morning, authentically tell your child three things you are grateful for. Be very graphic and descriptive in your listing and show passion in your gratitude.

For example, “I am happy and grateful for my health, the roof over my head and for a great night’s sleep”. Then ask your child what they are grateful for. Repeat this ritual before you go to bed at night too.

This is a routine that will help lay down the foundation within your child to help them be more grounded and to help them feel happier for no apparent reason.

Please see the attachment for a Gratitude Pick Up Sticks Game. You can adapt this to your family and write down your own affirmations.