
Gratitude is an abstract skill that can be hard to teach children. According to behaviour specialists, the best way to ensure that your child will emulate a particular characteristic is to model it yourself.
Studies show that expressing gratitude can have benefits such as supporting physical and mental well-being, boosting self-esteem, and enhancing sleep quality; all of which contribute to happier, healthier children.
Saying thank you when your child presents you with a gift is important for this reason. Children take their cues from parents. By expressing gratefulness, you’re not only teaching your child an important skill, you’re also instilling in them a good life lesson: giving gifts of not only things, but also time, money, effort, or thought, is all about showing love to each other.
Thank children often – and show gratitude if your child thinks you are special.