Sometimes in the blur of bustling days—harried mornings, hurried meals, and busy bedtimes—stopping and giving thanks for what is good in your family’s life can be forgotten. The Thanksgiving holiday gives families an opportunity to slow down and to reflect on all the goodness that is in their lives. But you do not have to wait for this beloved holiday season to begin teaching your preschooler about giving thanks!
The Importance of Giving Thanks
Giving thanks, also known as gratefulness or gratitude, can have a positive impact on many parts of our lives. Harvard Medical School notes that people who give thanks for what is good in their lives experience healthier relationships, better physical health, and more positive emotions. These individuals are also better equipped to deal with challenges and better able to enjoy life experiences.
How to Teach Your Preschooler about Giving Thanks
Send a Letter
Take a quiet afternoon as an opportunity to write thank you letters to family and friends. Give your child a chance to decorate the letter and to dictate what to say. Grandparents, cousins, and playmates alike will be delighted to receive such a personal expression of gratitude!
Read a Book
Pick out a book at your local library that explores why and how we give thanks in our lives. “The Berenstain Bears Give Thanks,” by Jan and Mike Berenstain, and “Bear Says Thanks,” by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman, both celebrate family, friendship, and the power of thankfulness in our lives!
If you enjoyed this blog and want to read more, click below for our blog from last month!
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Want to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Waterford Lakes located in Orlando, Florida? Our mission is to provide secure, nurturing, and educational environments for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years. We help children to bloom into responsible, considerate, and contributing members of society. For more information, give us a call or stop by for a tour! We’d love to get to know you and your family.