Teaching your child to say please and thank you is easy and something that is generally
expected. However, gratitude takes a step up from this and requires a lot more time and
effort to teach. It promotes a healthy lifestyle and teaches us to view life in a positive light
resulting in a more optimistic and empathising individual. Often, children receive a lot from
parents and elders such as opportunities or materials which can lead to a sense of
expectation and entitlement. It is important for parents to teach their children how to be
grateful in order to instil long-lasting morals.

Start by helping your child count their blessings on a regular basis. Set up a time at the end
of the day, possibly at dinner when the family is together, to go round and share what each
member is grateful for on that day. It could be something they experienced or someone
they met. Keep it light-hearted and merge it well into the conversation to make it feel
natural and not forced or scripted. Carving out this time will help create a positive
environment in the home and constantly remind your child of what they have.

Be a role model. Show your child how it should be done by demonstrating it to them. Let
your child know how grateful you are for them and their helpful acts by being vocal and
showing them love. Avoid complaining in front of them as they’ll pick it up very easily. Be
the best version of yourself and allow your child to follow.

Teach your child to do good even if they don’t receive anything in return. This is a bad
mentality to keep and will stop that sense of entitlement from reaching them. Have your
child help out with their teachers and elderly or do small jobs for others who are unable to
do so themselves. This will help your child understand and appreciate the things they have
whilst also being empathetic towards those who are less fortunate.

Given that life is so fast-paced, it is easy to not take that minute to reflect on what is already
in our possession. And it is the same with children, there will be days when they won’t show
as much gratitude. Persevere and don’t stop doing your best to try and make them the best child possible.