There are a million traditions that families can adopt to increase bonding opportunities—traditions in the kitchen and for heading back to school, traditions during holidays and birthdays. Likewise, there are a slew of Pinterest-perfect ways to teach gratitude to our children (like making thank you cards or these 10 ideas). We’ve found that adding a small tradition of expressing gratitude to our daily routine has been an awesome way to model and teach thankfulness.
About a year ago, our family went camping with friends and their daughter. We had a wonderful time cooking and exploring the great outdoors with each other, but one of my favorite things was learning about their family tradition of sharing their “thankfuls” every night before supper. They invited us to join them in sharing our thankfuls over a pot of campfire chili. We did just that—and then carried the simple ritual home with us.
Every night, whether we’re home or away, we each give thanks for something in our lives. We started the tradition very simply: each person can share, or they can pass. You can list one thing or several. You may not eat until everyone gets a turn. Guests are welcome to join or pass.
Our three year old starts every.single.day. by saying, “I’m thankful for having a nice day and…” then usually names something at the table (such as his dinner) or someone or something he can see in the room (like the lamp daddy made). He has just started to remember things that happened during the day (such as playing at a friend’s house). Anything is acceptable. Our five year old used to list the activity he just did (like playing outside) or something in the room as well, but it has been wonderful to hear his brain develop and memory strengthen. He now gives thanks for friends and family in his life or things that happened that week (i.e. visiting his grandparents or going swimming). Many times my husband and I catch each others’ eyes over their heads and silently celebrate and marvel together at their thoughtfulness. Sometimes we add a toast at the end (though we’re not very consistent with that), and then we always end with “Let’s eat!”
Teaching thankfulness in this way has been an easy way to check in with each child every day. We get to hear what is most important to them and it leads to conversation over dinner. We all get to practice speaking in front of others and communicating our ideas clearly, and we practice being good listeners, taking turns, and exhibiting self-control when a plate of yummy food is staring us in the face.
Have you adopted a ritual of expressing gratitude with your child?
What has worked on your house to teach thankfulness?
