7 Tips on How to Raise a Grateful Child ...

I know this sounds harsh. It does even to my own ears and concerning my own children. However, if you are searching for how to raise a grateful child, one of the best things you can do is to not buy them everything. I know that we all want our children to have everything, and it is actually okay to give them a lot of things as long as they appreciate it. Sometimes it actually is good for them to hear the word no, though.

If you want to know how to raise a grateful child, practice being a grateful person. Our children are far more likely to do what we do rather than what we say. Practice being grateful for all the blessings in your life. Practice showing gratitude for gifts and things others do for you. This is something your children will learn just by observing you.

It is important to require your children to show gratitude. You can’t make them feel grateful in their heart. That is a personal decision that only they can make. However, you can require the actions of gratitude and hopefully their heart will follow along. Many times, requiring your child to express gratitude will lead to them feeling that way.

It is important for our children to realize that there are people who have less than they do. If we don’t teach them this, they will not know. It is good to get them involved in a charity. Let them help you decide on some things to give away. Perhaps your child could give some old toys away to children that need them when they get some new ones.

If you see your child starting to display a bad attitude, the time to nip it in the bud is right then. If they receive something and are not thankful for it, return the gift or item to the store. At the least, put it away for a few weeks to give them some time to think about their actions. It is important that they realize that type of behavior is unacceptable. It only takes a few times of this to break that bad habit.

Gratitude is a lesson your child can pick up as they go through life. Make it something you discuss, along with other subjects such as sharing and kindness. It is something they will need to practice and that is okay. Tell them that gratitude helps you to be a happier person. Explain that others appreciate it when you are grateful, too.

Along with gratitude comes the quality of looking on the bright side of things. Once you practice being grateful, it becomes natural to look for something to be grateful for. You can help your child to be grateful by pointing out the bright side of situations they are facing. All of us can use some perspective in situations sometimes. They may even return this favor to you someday.

Raising a grateful child is something that you work at over the years. What tips have you followed to help you raise a grateful child? I would love to learn from you.