4 Ways to Show Gratitude
With Thanksgiving around the corner, gratitude is on all of our minds. The popularity of gratitude over the past decade has taught us all how important it is to slow down and remember what is good in our lives.
The practice of expressing gratitude has a way of amplifying our blessings and turning down our struggles. Each week in our Tinkergarten class we practice giving thanks for something that makes us happy that day. Gratitude is something even the smallest amongst us can tap into. The more we model the practice for our children, the more natural it will become for them.
Here are 4 ways to tap into the practice of gratitude at Thanksgiving and beyond.
1. Have a Thanksgiving Awards Show
Create fun and personalized awards for each family member this Thanksgiving! Take a moment to think of something unique and special about everyone. Perhaps it’s “Best Sister,” “World’s Greatest Cookie Maker,” or “Silliest Laugh.” Make it lighthearted and meaningful, celebrating what makes each person shine. Craft the awards using paper, markers, or print them out with fun designs.
During Thanksgiving dinner, take turns presenting the awards around the table, sharing laughs and appreciation for one another. It’s a thoughtful way to show gratitude for the quirks, talents, and qualities that make your family special!
2. Remember Others That Help with the Holidays.
As the holiday season approaches, take a moment to recognize and appreciate the people who often work behind the scenes to make your life easier. From the postal worker who delivers your packages no matter the weather, to the grocery clerk who helps you find everything for your festive meals, to the trash collector who keeps your home clean—these individuals play a vital role in keeping the holiday season running smoothly. We often rely on their services without much thought, but this is the perfect time to show them a little extra gratitude.
One thoughtful way to express your appreciation is by leaving them a note of thanks along with a small token, such as a piece of candy, a holiday cookie, or a packet of hot cocoa. A simple handwritten card, saying something like, “Thank you for all that you do for our community—your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed,” can bring a smile to their face. These small gestures can make a big difference, spreading gratitude to those who help make your days brighter year-round.
3. Gratitude Photo Challenge
Start a fun Gratitude Photo Challenge by taking a picture each day of something that sparks joy or appreciation. When your child gets excited about something, hand them your phone and let them capture the moment themselves. These pictures can be anything—a beautiful sunset, a favorite toy, or a cozy family moment. Save each photo in a special “Gratitude” album on your phone to create a collection of happy memories. On tough days or when you’re feeling down, open the album and scroll through it to remind yourself of all the things that have brought you happiness. It’s a simple way to lift your spirits and reflect on the little moments that matter.
4. Make a Gratitude Jar
Create a Gratitude Jar with your family by writing down things you’re grateful for and placing them in a special container. Each day, take a moment to reflect on something meaningful, whether it’s a kind gesture, a happy memory, or even a small joy like a warm cup of tea You can involve your kids in making the jar even more special by decorating it together with stickers, paint, or colorful ribbons. For creative ideas on how to make the perfect container, check out this blog post for fun, kid-friendly craft tips. As the jar fills up, it becomes a visual reminder of all the positive moments and blessings in your life. On days when you need a boost, open the jar and read through your gratitude notes to feel uplifted and inspired
As we head into the Thanksgiving season, it’s the perfect time to focus on gratitude, not just for one day but as a daily practice. Whether through heartfelt awards at the dinner table, showing appreciation for those who work behind the scenes, or engaging in fun family traditions like the Gratitude Photo Challenge or a Gratitude Jar, there are countless ways to embrace thankfulness. These small acts of reflection and recognition can deepen our appreciation for life’s blessings, both big and small, while teaching our children the value of expressing gratitude. By making gratitude a regular practice, we can create lasting memories, strengthen our connections, and spread positivity well beyond the holidays.
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