5 ways to instill gratitude in your child from Care.com

1. 5 Ways to Instill Gratitude in Your Child

2. 1. Talk about your blessings .Each day, encourage kids to name a couple of things for which they're thankful. It can be anything -- a good grade, a friend who shared her snack or a favorite toy Try first thing in the morning, at the dinner table or as part of your bedtime routine It really opens kids' eyes and they start looking for moments to appreciate throughout the day

3. 2. Don't go overboard on material things Kids are inundated with more stuff than they can use - or appreciate Solution? Focus on experiences rather than things: For example, the next time Grandma asks for gift ideas, suggest show tickets or a pass to the children's museum If you want a memento of an outing, choose a CD with the show tunes you heard or a photo album to fill with pictures of your day

4. 3. Resurrect the dying art of thank-you note writing Keep a stack of thank-you cards on hand and have your child use them Young children can sign their names and older kids can compose and write the note Besides acknowledging the obvious like birthday and holiday gifts, encourage kids to share their thanks for kind deeds If your child had a great time at a play date, have her send the host a thank-you note, or she can write one to thank her babysitter for doing something especially nice

5. 4. Be a model of gratitude Say 'thank you' often and sincerely As you or your child's caregiver go about the day, remember to express gratitude to people who help you, like the crossing guard who gets you safely across the street Modeling politeness and respect is a great way to encourage those qualities in kids

6. 5. Do good as a family When kids give their time and energy to help others, they'll be less likely to take things like health, home and family for granted Set aside some time to help out an elderly neighbor or participate in a community charity event. Helping others is a sure-fire way to get everyone in a more grateful state of mind.

7. Learn More Read the rest of 5 Ways to Instill Gratitude in Your Child here: http://www.care.com/child-care-5-ways-to-instill-gratitude-in-your-child-p1017-q4907296.html Want to learn more about child care and families? Go here: http://www.care.com/child-care-articles-resources-p1019.html