- Image by Wasfi Akab via Flickr
Saying “thank you” is one of the most powerful habits that you can get your child into. Including gratitude into social interaction can encourage a high return in a multitude of unforeseen ways. Gratitude can help build friendships, heal personal wounds and encourage a positive environment. How can you get your child to start thanking others?
Speech
If your child is young, you can begin teaching how and when to say “thank you.” Practice saying “thank you” in front of the mirror. Practice saying “thank you” to one another. Create scenarios and create role playing games based upon appreciation. Then be sure to implement gratitude in everyday situations. As long as you keep gratitude lighthearted and fun, your child will begin to gain positive feelings about saying “thank you.” If you force your child to say “thank you,” chances are they’ll develop negative feelings toward the act. It’s important for your child to create a habit that becomes natural for them later on.
Thank You Notes
Thank you cards are a wonderful tool for a child to learn gratitude at any age. After birthdays and the holidays, spend time with your child creating thank you cards for gifts. If your child is young, you can even have him or her practice writing out the word “thank you.” If you have an older child, you can give the task to write a list of what he or she is thankful for. Your child is not only learning about gratitude, being all-around thankful is also an instant mood enhancer.
Stories
Find books that encourage gratitude. There are numerous books on manners for children of every age. Take advantage of these books, whether you purchase them or go to the library. Take time out to read about the importance of gratitude.
