10 Ways to Show Gratitude this Thanksgiving

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the month of November is often spent reflecting on things we're thankful for. With my kids I try to encourage them to not only recognize what they have, but to show gratitude through acts of kindness. Following are 10 ways to show give thanks all month long!

1. Spend Time Together: With so much demanding our time and attention in everyday life, make time for your kids where you can give them undivided attention and let them know how much you love them and cherish your time together
2. Be an Example: One of the simplest and most effective ways to teach thankfulness is by showing your own appreciation. Giving praise, kind words, and recognition for effort will yield a lasting effect on your kids. 
3. Keep a Family Gratitude Journal: Keep a journal in a set place in your home for recording things family members are grateful for. Take time daily or as much as possible to record things you appreciate. Younger children can draw pictures or tell a parent what to write.
   
   Free Thanksgiving Gratitude Journal found on Kori Clark.
4. Show Kindness to Caregivers: Help your kids show gratitude to those that play an important role in their lives, including school teachers, coaches, church leaders and care providers. When picking up your child to go home, remind them to say thank you
5. Give Holiday Goodies: Involve your kids in baking holiday treats, and deliver them with a Thank You note to neighbors. Thank them for their friendship and let them know what it means to you. To save on time print free Thanksgiving notes
6. Write letters: Help your kids write letters of appreciation to others outside their immediate realm, such as those serving in the military, law enforcement, or other leadership/church roles to thank them for their selfless service
7. Volunteer Your Time: Clean up your neighborhood, volunteer at a local animal shelter, read to seniors at a nursing home, or whatever else you see a need for in your community. Involve the whole family and help them feel the blessings of service
8. Go on a Nature walk: Simply walk around your neighborhood, a local park, or nature trail. Take in all of nature's beauty (including the changing colors of leaves) and encourage your children to share their thankfulness for things in the great outdoors. Give them a small notebook to record in words or drawing what they are thankful for
   
   Enjoy the beauty of fall! FreeDigitalPhotos.net/num_skyman
9. Make Notes for Family/Friends: On the note of letters, have your children write/draw letters to other family members/friends. Hide the notes in the house to be found by that family member or mail the letters to those that live farther away
10. Respect Personal property: Teach your kids to be respectful and appreciative of what they have. Help them learn to take care of their own belongings and not be jealous when others have something they don't
11. Bonus! Thanksgiving crafts: Last, but not least make a few fun Thanksgiving crafts. We'll share a compilation of fun & easy-to-make ideas early next week. In the meantime, check out our Thanksgiving board on Pinterest!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

All photos/links were used with permission.