The Power of Gratitude: Helping Kids Cultivate Thankfulness During the Holidays

As the holidays approach, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the power of gratitude—a trait that not only fosters happiness but also builds resilience and emotional well-being in both adults and children. For kids, practicing gratitude can help them focus on the positives in their lives, appreciate others, and develop stronger relationships. For families, engaging in gratitude activities together can create meaningful connections and cherished memories.

 

Keep reading to explore why gratitude is essential for children and how families can make it a centerpiece of their holiday traditions.

Why Gratitude Matters for Kids

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a mindset that helps kids:

• Build resilience: Focusing on what they’re thankful for can help children cope with challenges by shifting their attention to the positive aspects of life.
• Enhance empathy: Gratitude fosters an appreciation for others’ kindness and encourages kids to reciprocate.
• Boost happiness: Studies show that expressing gratitude releases dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters often known as “feel-good” chemicals, which enhances feelings of happiness and satisfaction. [1]
• Strengthen relationships: Kids who regularly practice gratitude tend to have stronger connections with family and friends.

Holiday Gratitude Activities for Families

Now that you know the ways that gratitude can benefit your children, here are a few simple, yet impactful, activities you can do as a family to nurture gratitude this holiday season:

#1: Create a gratitude jar

Place a jar in a common area and provide small slips of paper. Each family member writes something they’re grateful for each day and drops it in the jar. On New Year’s Eve, read them together as a family to reflect on the positive aspects of the past year.

#2: Make time for a thank-you card workshop

Dedicate an afternoon to creating thank-you cards for fellow family members, friends, teachers, or neighbors. Kids can decorate the cards with drawings and heartfelt messages as a way to thank people in their lives for all they’ve done for them this year.

#3: Take a gratitude walk

Take family walks and encourage everyone to share something they appreciate about the day, whether it’s the nice weather, a kind gesture, or time spent together.

Related resource:
Why spending time with loved ones over the holidays is beneficial for students

#4: Cook or bake for someone in need

Consider involving your kids in making a meal or baking treats for a family in need or a community organization. Use the experience to discuss the importance of giving and being thankful for what you have.

#5: Gratitude story time

Read books about thankfulness, such as The Thankful Book by Todd Parr or Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, and discuss the themes with your kids.

#6: Volunteer as a family

Choose a cause that resonates with your family, such as serving meals at a shelter or participating in a holiday toy drive. Volunteering offers a hands-on way to teach kids the value of helping others and appreciating their own blessings.

In conclusion

The beauty of gratitude is that it can become a year-round habit. The holidays provide a unique opportunity to start new family traditions that emphasize thankfulness, empathy, and connection. By modeling gratitude and engaging in activities together, parents can help kids develop a perspective that will benefit them throughout their lives.

This holiday season, let gratitude be the heart of your family celebrations. Not only will it make the season more meaningful, but it will also create a foundation of thankfulness that your children can carry into the new year—and beyond.

Cultivating gratitude amongst our students at WPS

At Windermere Preparatory School, it’s important to us that we are teaching our students the importance of gratitude and appreciating everything they have whether that’s on our school campus or at home. 

One of the key ways we foster this sense of gratitude is by being intentional about the community service projects our students are involved in from elementary through high school.

Whether it’s the Lower School Student Government Association’s Annual Toy Drive for the Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Middle School’s canned food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, High School’s Toiletries and Necessity Drive for the Miles To Go Foundation, or our school-wide Lakerthon fundraising event to benefit Children’s Miracle Network and Seeway Tanzania, we find ways for our students of all ages to give back.

Interested in learning more about our school?
Contact us today to speak with one of our Admissions Officers.  

Source:

1: Calm | The science of gratitude and how it can affect the brain