#ChampionMom - How to Raise Children to Be Grateful

By: christineh Friday November 25, 2016 comments Tags: #ChampionMom, champion mom, children, grateful, gratitude, parenting

One of the hardest jobs as a parent is raising a child to mind their manners and respect others, so we all understand that slight cringe when someone gives your child something and they run off without saying thank you, or completely ignore the giver. For the child, though, this isn't rude as they are not always aware of the way to react in such situations. This is especially true for shy children. However, there are ways to help your child(ren) react correctly in those situations, and be grateful for what they are given.

The most effective and simplest way to raise grateful children is to teach them thank you. When a child hears a word or phrase used repeatedly it becomes a normal part of their vocabulary. They pick up on social clues from the adults in their lives, so seeing you say thank you to people will instill in them the need to do the same. Another way of getting them to learn when they should use thank you, is through role play - set up a shop, or a café and role play a scene where politeness is necessary.

Sometimes the child is given something they don't actually like - for example the store-bought fashion doll rather than the newest Barbie they wanted. In times like this it is worth quietly reminding the child that it might not be what they wanted but it is still nice of the giver to remember that they wanted a fashion doll. This way the focus is taken off the actual gift and placed upon the fact the giver has been thoughtful.

Does your child expect to be bought something every time you leave the house? Then have window shopping only days - perfect around the Christmas Season. Make it clear that the day is just to get out and about for a little while rather than with the purpose to purchase something. This way it becomes less of an expectation to be bought something every time you go out.

Being grateful and saying thank you for the items they are given is one step, however a truly grateful child will be grateful of what they have as well. If your child wants a new toy then suggest they give something of theirs away to a child less lucky than them through charity donations. It teaches the child to respect those less fortunate than them and to be giving. Incorporating volunteer work into your family activities is another great way for children to experience, first-hand, what it is like to go without.

Little changes in everyday life can have a big impact on your child's behavior without you realizing it. In order to raise a grateful child, you need to showcase behavior they can imitate. Your expressions of gratitude will be the building blocks of developing their grateful habits.

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About the Author: christineh