NOUN:

Gratitude (uncountable)

The state of being grateful.

Having a sense of gratitude is not something we are born with.  We "catch" a sense of gratitude from the people we are surrounded by.  Since young children spend more time with their families than with anybody else, childhood is the perfect time to make sure your children "catch" it from you. 

Gratitude is not something we sit down and teach our children about.  It is something we practice on a daily basis, and our children learn by seeing it in action. 

Dana Hilmer, the Lifestyle Mom gives 5 tips to help kids cultivate gratitude (be sure to view the video at the end of the article, too):

1. Help children recognize the value of things.

2. Teach your children to make good choices.

3. Practice gratitude daily.

4. Teach the joy of giving.

5. Lead by example.

Another tradition you may want to start with your family includes writing in a daily gratitude journal.  Just find a notebook and dedicate it as the family gratitude journal.  Pick a certain time each day where everyone can write one or two things they are grateful for.  Even on the most difficult of days, everyone can find something for which to be grateful. This journal can become a cherised family heirloom.

Want to help your kids be grateful in another way?  Read "Getting rid of the gimmies" to help reduce your child's materialism.

As always, if you have any ideas to add, feel free to chime in below!