How to explore gratitude with your child.

_{[AD. This is a contributed post]}

As a parent, you have probably been teaching your child to say thank you from the moment they are able to say the words. However, gratitude is more than just saying the words. It’s about actually feeling thankful and appreciative. There are lots of benefits to feeling and expressing gratitude, such as reduced envy and increased empathy. I have teamed up with a private nursery in Hampshire to share some tips for parents who want to explore gratitude with their child. 

_{[Photo by Patty Brito on Unsplash]}

How to explore gratitude.

Encourage Reflection.

At the end of each day, you should encourage your child to reflect on the things that have happened to them and consider what they might be grateful for. Perhaps this could be a family discussion at the dinner table, or maybe you could encourage your child to keep a gratitude journal in which they jot their thoughts down. Ask them to think about a few things that they appreciate. If they’re struggling, perhaps you could share some of your own, such as a colleague making you a coffee or helping you with a task at work. They don’t have to be big things; gratitude is all about appreciating the little things in life. 

Provide a Sense of Perspective.

Try and help your child consider what other people might be going through so that they can understand how fortunate they are. Not only does this increase their ability to empathise with others, but it also encourages gratitude. Help them understand that not everyone is lucky enough to have three nutritious meals a day or even a roof over their head. You could also think about people closer to home, like an elderly neighbour who struggles to complete everyday tasks. Encourage your child to offer their help to these types of people to promote compassionate and give them an opportunity to be grateful for the things they are capable of those others are not. 

Be a Good Role Model

As with most life lessons, it’s important to show your child the right ways to behave. So, be sure to express gratitude yourself. Send a thank you card when you receive a gift or buy their teacher some flowers at the end of the academic year. Explain to your child why you have done those things. Avoid comparing yourself to others and complaining about the things you do not have, and instead talk about how fortunate you feel.