Teaching gratitude this holiday season – and all year long

(Follow me at @drClaire) For most children, the holidays are, well, about presents. It’s understandable; it was certainly my favorite part of the holidays when I was growing up. But sometimes expectations can get out of hand. And often parents find themselves wondering why their children aren’t a bit more grateful for what they have. Gratitude is important — and not just because it’s a good social grace to have. It’s also essential for overall happiness. When we’re grateful, we understand that there are still good things in our lives even when things don’t work out the way we’d hoped (like when we don’t get that cool toy — or that cool job). If we don’t understand and practice gratitude, we will always feel like there is more we should have, no matter what we have already. Gratitude has to be taught — and it takes practice. This holiday season, why don’t you make it part of your family’s routine and culture? Here are some suggestions to help: When buying gifts, buy some for a shelter or a toy drive. Let your child help pick them out and deliver them. Take your child holiday grocery shopping. Buy extra food. Bring your child with you when you take it to the food pantry. Before the holidays, go through old toys and clothes to “make room” for new things. Give away whatever you can to shelters and other charities. Involve your child in all of this, too. With your child, make a list of all the peo...
Source: New Harvard Health Information - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Behavioral Health Children's Health Mental Health Parenting gratitude Source Type: news