Exploring Gratitude with Your Child

Children that explore gratitude are happier, healthier and perform better in school. It is thought that gratitude helps us to strengthen bonds with those around us, allowing us to be well connected and self-confident. We have teamed up with a pre prep school in Hampshire to share more on exploring gratitude with your child.

Helping Out the Less Fortunate

Taking time to help those in need can help your child to reflect on the blessings that they have in their lives, especially the ones that they might not think about like running water. This could be volunteering to help out at a homeless shelter or helping a neighbour to carry their groceries.

Being Open About Their Feelings

By encouraging your child to be open about their feelings from a young age, you can help them to talk about them more easily with others. This can help them to express how appreciative they are for the people around them and allow them to form better relationships. You can do this by having conversations with your child about how they feel, encouraging them to check in with their own feelings.

Saying Thank You

The simplest way that you can teach your child to express their gratitude is through saying thank you. Start by prompting your child by asking them ‘what do we say?’ when experiencing an act of kindness and demonstrating it around them yourself.

Highlighting Hidden Blessings

When things are difficult, it’s even more so important to reflect on the good that we have in our lives and to focus on the silver linings. This can help your child to stay calm, be optimistic and help them to move forward.

Don’t Be Afraid to Say No

Exercising your right to say no as a parent can stop your child from being spoiled, entitled and most importantly appreciate the things that they have. It makes hearing the word ‘yes’ all the more rewarding and allows your child to explore their gratitude.