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32 Ways to Cultivate Gratitude in Kids

Jeffrey Froh and Giacomo Bono, leading researchers and demonstrated experts in the field of gratitude, present their latest findings in their book, "Making Grateful Kids." Their science-based approach to cultivating gratitude in kids of all ages can have a huge (and positive) impact in our homes, schools, and communities.

Gratitude, defined by Bono and Froh as “the appreciation people feel when somebody has done something kind or helpful for them, or when they recognize the good things or people they have in their lives,” has many pivotal benefits. These include: stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure; more positive emotions; greater experience of joy, optimism, and happiness; acting with more compassion; and feel less lonely.

We can start teaching our kids how to be grateful even in the preschool years, but it’s never too late bump up our gratitude quotient, even in adulthood. In the book, Bono and Froh present 32 concrete and straightforward "gratitude strategies," that you can tweak to make just right for the interest and readiness of your children.

The gratitude strategies Bono and Froh present all fall into one of seven categories:


  1. Model and teach gratitude;
  2. Spend time with your kids and be mindful when with them;
  3. Support your children’s autonomy;
  4. Use kids’ strengths to fuel gratitude (have your kids take this online quiz to determine their character strengths);
  5. Help focus and support kids to achieve intrinsic goals;
  6. Encourage helping others and nurturing relationships; and
  7. Help kids find what matters to them (discover new passions by trying new things).

 


Gratitude has a powerful relationship to feeling life satisfaction, and research suggests it is particularly beneficial for young people. We all benefit from helping to create the next generation of grateful humans, and we hope you find this book helpful in your own lives.


Discover More about Making Grateful Kids
Get a copy of Making Grateful Kids: The Science of Building Character, and enjoy the journey.