Anyone else ever fear they are raising Veruca Salt? The first time I heard my daughter say that, I had flashes of the spoiled little girl from "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Oh no! I shut that down right away.
In a blinged out world where it seems like money is no object and kids get whatever they want, I want to make sure my kids have compassion for others and gratitude for what they have.
Not sure where to begin? These six simple tactics will help bring out an attitude of gratitude in your child.
Please and Thank You
1 of 7
From birth, kids should be taught to say please and thank you. It's as basic as it can get when it comes to showing manners and gratitude.
Sharing is Caring
2 of 7
Sharing is tough. Or at least, it is when you're a kid and you want to play with all of the toys at once. Encouraging your kids to share is another basic form of gratitude. When your child does share things, point out the happiness it caused. Kids can see the cause and effect, promise.
Set an Example
3 of 7
If you want your kids to show compassion and gratitude toward society, you must be their biggest example of how to do it right. If they don't see you doing it, why should you expect them to display those traits? Say thank you to someone holding the door. Tip a waitress/waiter that provides great service. Donate to charities. Rake your elderly neighbor's yard. Pick up trash rather than stepping over it. And don't forget to say thank you to your kids for helping out around the house--even if it is just doing their daily chores.
No One Rides for Free
4 of 7
I'll never forget when I went to college and had a roommate that didn't know how to sweep the floor. Seriously. She had no clue how to use a basic broom. In her house, she never had chores. Her mom did everything. Having chores at home is an easy way to raise appreciation for what it takes to maintain a household. It's also a way to show that working together makes it easier for everyone. Even toddlers can help out by setting the table, picking up toys and sorting laundry.
Money Management
5 of 7
Sadly, money does not grow on trees. Most kids are clueless about money. The concept of earning money, saving it and then using it to purchase something you really want is lost on them. They want it right now! An allowance is a great way to build appreciation for money and how much work goes into saving for what you want.
Give Back
6 of 7
It really is better to give than receive. Sign up to volunteer as a family. Volunteering helps foster a sense of community to your child. Giving your time as a volunteer builds perspective and gratitude on what you have, whether it's your health, your family or your home.
Discuss This Article