Ask a two-year-old what they're thankful for and you'll get answers like "my snack," "the dog," or "rocks." Honestly? Fair.
Little kids don't understand gratitude yet. But they can start to feel it long before they can explain it, and November is the perfect month to plant that seed. Here are five easy ways to start.
1. Go on a "thank you" walk
Head outside and say thanks to what you see. "Thank you, tree, for the shade." "Thank you, bird, for the song." It sounds silly. Kids love it. And it teaches them to notice the good stuff around them.
2. Grow a thankful tree
Tape a paper trunk to the wall. Every day, add a paper leaf with one thing your child is thankful for. You write, they decorate. (Expect at least one leaf that just says "trucks.")
3. Let them help
Toddlers want to be useful. Let them carry napkins to the table, stir the batter, or fill the dog's bowl. Then thank them like you mean it. Kids learn gratitude by receiving it first.
4. Share one good thing at dinner
Pick one meal a day for a quick round of "one good thing about today." Grown-ups go first so kids hear how it sounds. No pressure and no wrong answers.
5. Read about it
A few sweet picks for this time of year: Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson, Thankful by Eileen Spinelli, and The Thankful Book by Todd Parr.
Don't stress if it doesn't stick
At this age, gratitude is about repetition, not results. Keep modeling it. One day your little one will hit you with a "thank you" you didn't prompt, and it'll make your whole week.
From our nest to yours, we're so thankful for the families who share their little ones with us. Happy Holiday Season! 🍂
Robin's Nest Family Childcare is a licensed family childcare home in Elk Grove, CA. Learn more at robinsnestfamily.com.