November is often associated with gratitude, as we gather together with friends and family to give Thanks. While it’s wonderful to actively practice Gratitude during this time of year, it’s important to try and do so all year long, even in little ways. Actively practicing gratitude has been shown to support mental health by fostering more joy, resilience and compassion.
When we embrace gratitude, we are strengthening our emotional intelligence & empathy for others. Gratitude reminds us that we're all inter-connected as valued and purposeful members of a community.
Here are a few concrete ways to practice Gratitude together as a family:
Hold weekly family meetings and give compliments and/or share moments you appreciated someone for doing something helpful or kind.
Leave little “thank you” notes for your children (modeling this may inspire them to do the same) - if your child is pre-literate, you can draw a picture of what you are grateful for!
Invite your children to write a note or do an act of kindness for someone who helps your family in some way (mail carrier, teacher, school administrator, neighbor).
Invite your family to share all the things they are thankful for and post or frame this in your home. This can serve as a beautiful reminder and reflection of your family’s values.
Each evening, at dinner or bedtime, invite each family member to share something they are grateful for that day!