Appreciation: lead by example
Feelings of appreciation and gratitude lead to happier and less stressed kids!
We can teach children to honor and appreciate things we often take for granted such as the closeness of family, friends, food, and a home. Children learn by example. They pick up on the things that we do and say, just as much as the things we don’t do and say.
As parents, educators, and leaders who work with children, we can find moments throughout our day to model gratitude and appreciation. Most importantly, we can specifically acknowledge what we appreciate and why. This gives a power to our words and actions that children can model and call into action.
I Appreciate You Because
We can tell our children what we appreciate about them and their actions. Acknowledging when they clean up their room, put their dishes away, or help a sibling unprompted is an opportunity for us to show appreciation.
Here are some great things you can say to show your child you appreciate them:
Thank you for sharing what happened at school.
Thank you for brushing your teeth without being asked.
It was so helpful when you cleaned up your room.
You were so kind to that person at the grocery store. I bet they really appreciated your help.
Your goodnight hugs are my favorite part of the day.
As you begin to implement these phrases, notice how your child responds and if they begin to share their appreciation too!
Gratitude Journal
A novel idea for the holidays is to gift your child a Gratitude Journal. Below are a few links to child-friendly Gratitude Journals they may enjoy.