Gratitude and kindness are not easy to pass along to some kids, but you can still learn how to raise grateful children even if you live in such a materialist world. Having the latest and the greatest gadgets will not make you a better person so teach your kids to be grateful not only for what they have but for the opportunities that are available to them. Also, there are a lot of studies that have shown that kids who showed high levels of gratitude reported having stronger GPAs, less depression and envy and a more positive outlook on life than the less grateful kids. Here are a few very helpful tips on how to raise grateful children in a materialistic world that you should consider:
1. Give Genuine Thanks out Loud
If you expect your kids to be grateful for what they have, then you should give genuine thanks out loud. You can do this by being thankful to everyone you interact with; from the grocery bagger to the man who holds the door for you. Be specific and tell those people what are you grateful for so that your child can understand how a small act of kindness can lift someone’s whole day.
2. Make Gratitude Part of Your Daily Routine
In order to raise grateful children, you should make gratitude part of your daily routine. For example, when you sit down for lunch with your whole family, you should first mention three things that you are grateful for. You could turn this into a habit because with practice, gratitude will become an important part of your kid’s attitude.
3. Shift Your Perspective
Teach your kids that they can have fun no matter what they do. Who says that work, studying or doing homework has to be boring? So instead if saying “I have to do that.”, start saying “I get to do that.”. This simple thing will help you feel more grateful for what you have and you will be a gratitude role-model for your kids as well.
4. Volunteer
If you want to raise grateful children, then volunteer with them. Teach them that they have to help the ones around them and to always try to make other people’s lives a little bit better. Every small act of kindness can lift someone’s whole day so it’s important to help others if you want to live a happy and fulfilling life.
5. Keep Things Simple
Simplicity does matter so try to always keep things simple because your kids will start to notice the little things in life and they will learn to appreciate them more. Try to make a difference in your community every day and teach your kids the benefits of gratitude.
6. Be a Gratitude Role Model
If you want to teach your kids to be grateful for what they have, then you need to be a gratitude role-model yourself. Lead by example and show them why being grateful can make you feel happier and why it can help you lead a more successful life.
7. Teach Action
Saying thank you is fine but sometimes, you need to show up and give thanks. For example, you could call someone and say thanks instead of sending an e-mail or a text. You could also write a thank-you note and send it to that individual that helped you or you could even give them a thank-you basket.
Saying “please” and “thank you” is not only good manners, it’s also a way to teach your kids to be kind and to appreciate the things and the opportunities they have. Do you know any other tips on how to raise grateful children in such a materialistic world? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I teach my child to appreciate what they have?
- Encourage daily gratitude by discussing things they’re thankful for and modeling appreciation yourself.
- What are simple ways to practice gratitude as a family?
- Try gratitude journals, sharing highlights of the day at dinner, or volunteering together.
- How do I handle my child's complaints about not getting new toys?
- Acknowledge their feelings, then gently explain the value of experiences over things and encourage patience.
- Is it okay to give my child material rewards?
- Occasional rewards are fine, but focus more on praising effort and kindness to foster intrinsic gratitude.
- How can I reduce my child’s exposure to materialistic influences?
- Limit screen time and ads, encourage creative play, and prioritize family experiences over purchases.
- What role does teaching empathy play in fostering gratitude?
- Empathy helps children understand and appreciate others, which naturally builds a grateful mindset.
- How do I encourage gratitude in a busy, distracted world?
- Create intentional moments like unplugged meals or gratitude reminders to help them pause and reflect.
- Can gratitude help improve my child's overall happiness?
- Yes, practicing gratitude boosts positive emotions and resilience, contributing to lasting happiness.
- At what age should I start teaching gratitude?
- You can start modeling and encouraging gratitude as early as toddlerhood through simple words and actions.
- How do I address peer pressure related to owning trendy items?
- Teach your child to value their uniqueness and the importance of character over possessions.