At this time of year we often think a lot about thankfulness. How do we help our children to be thankful and have it last longer than a month. By the time Christmas hits thankfulness has gone out the window and its all about what "I want for Christmas". Here are some ideas to help give the next generation an attitude of gratitude and make it last throughout the year.
Listen to your attitude: Our children learn by example and so the first questions is...What is your attitude? Are you thankful or always complaining. The kids are always listening so try these attitude adjustments.
Instead of: There is too much laundry
Try: We are so blessed to have so many warm things this winter. I am so thankful I have machines to help with all the washing.
Instead of: I hate when Dad works late
Try: I am so glad Dad has a job and is working so hard so we can be comfortable.
Instead of: Complaining about housework
Try: We are so blessed with a nice house. We should make sure we take good care of it.
Shop for others: There are so many programs this holiday season to help others. Talk to your children about those in need. Help them to understand that some children will not come down to a pile of presents. Some kids won't get toys. They are just hoping to have a meal and have a warm coat. Take some time to buy some presents for others. You can also make a donation to a food bank.
Thankful book: Make a book for your family with the things you are thankful for. Have your children draw pictures or glue a picture on each page. Staple one side to make it into a book. Read it often throughout the year to be sure you remember all the blessings in your life.
Thankful chart: Make a list of all the things you are thankful for. Add to it something new every day this month. Keep the list someplace you can see it or take it out once a month or so throughout the year, especially when someone is getting a little ungrateful. You can also use this as a consequence for an older child. When they are being selfish or ungrateful have them make a list of things they are thankful for. It may help adjust their attitude.
Sponsor a child: Even the poorest American is wealthy by the worlds standards. So many people live in poverty. Do some research and teach your children about the living conditions of children in other countries. This may lead them/you to sponsor a child in another country. World Vision and Compassion International are two organizations that allow you to sponsor a child in another country. You will get a picture of the child and you can be pen pals. This is a great experience for kids and very educational.
The most important thing to remember is that we teach best by example. The more thankful we are for our children, home, family, and things, the more thankful our children will be. Lets adjust our attitude and let our thankfulness come out so we can lead our children to be thankful for so many things and not take what they have for granted.
Come back to ATFM for some ideas on crafts and books that will help your children focus on thankfulness this month. Please share with us your thoughts on thankfulness and how to teach it to our children.
