If I had a dollar for every time my child asked for one more snack after already eating all the snacks, I’d probably have enough to buy stock in Goldfish. 🙃 But as much as I want to give my kids the world, I also want to teach them the beauty of gratitude—even when their little hearts are focused on more.
In a world that constantly tells them they need the next thing to be happy, gratitude shifts their hearts toward contentment. And honestly? It does the same for us too.
Why Gratitude Matters for Kids
1️⃣ It Builds a Content Heart – When kids learn to appreciate what they have instead of always wanting more, they grow into more content and joyful adults.
2️⃣ It Strengthens Their Faith – Gratitude reminds them that everything we have is a gift from God. When we thank Him regularly, we acknowledge His goodness in our lives.
3️⃣ It Encourages Generosity – Kids who appreciate what they have are more likely to share and serve others with a grateful heart.
Simple Ways to Teach Gratitude
- Model It Daily – Kids learn by watching us. Thank God out loud for the small things—sunshine, family, food on the table. Let them hear your gratitude in everyday moments.
- Start a Gratitude Habit – Before bedtime, ask, What’s one thing you were thankful for today? Even simple answers (like “mac and cheese”) help build awareness.
- Teach Them to Pray with Thanks – Instead of just praying for what they want, encourage them to thank God for what they already have.
- Serve Others Together – Whether it’s making cards for neighbors or donating toys, showing kids how to give teaches them to appreciate what they have.
Gratitude is a Daily Practice
Mama, raising grateful kids in a more, more, more world takes intention—but it’s so worth it. And yes, they’ll still ask for more snacks (because, kids). But over time, those little gratitude moments will shape their hearts into ones that see and appreciate the goodness around them.
And that? That’s something to be truly thankful for.
Leave a Reply