One of the biggest problems with adulting is that we rarely stop. Work, kids, gym, laundry, sleep. It never ends. As a parent, an employee, and a human, you’re expected to go 100 mph all day, every day.

But as a parent, you’ve probably noticed something that makes you stop in your tracks every now and then – your kids. Their sense of wonder, curiosity, and perspective create little moments that shift focus back to what’s really important. Teaching your children gratitude is one of those things that helps create more of those moments. 

Gratitude is more than saying “thank you.” It’s a deeper mindset that encourages appreciation, generosity, and recognition of others. Values like gratitude can be built into everyday life. 

Here’s how you can instill this sense of thankfulness into a generation that’s more willing to spend half a month’s (of your) salary on an iPhone than being thankful for what they have already.

Why Gratitude Matters

At its core, gratitude is an emotional state where someone recognizes and appreciates the good in their life. The people. The moments. And sure, material things count, too. 

Gratitude is manners wrapped in a sense of mindfulness and recognition. 

For children, practicing gratitude builds a foundation of emotional resilience and a broader perspective – from appreciating everything you do as a parent to giving thank you gifts to people they care about. It helps them recognize that life has shared experiences and that generosity has value.

Thoughtful Gifting as a Teaching Tool

Gifting provides a tangible opportunity for children to practice being generous and develop a deeper understanding of the thought and intention required to give. 

A thoughtful gift to a grandparent extends beyond the physical object. It carries the intention to bring joy to someone else.

When your child sees the happiness a gift can bring and actively participates in the process, they begin to understand the joy of giving. This, in turn, nurtures their capacity to appreciate what they themselves receive.

Practical Tips for Teaching Gratitude 

Here are some ways you can use gifting to help your children understand and practice gratitude:

Choose Something That Reflects the Recipient’s Interests

One of the simplest ways to teach your children thoughtfulness is by encouraging them to consider the other person’s interests before choosing a gift. Whether it’s for a friend, a sibling, or a grandparent, ask questions like, “What do they love to do?” or, “Have you noticed them mentioning anything they might need?” 

What you’re really doing is training your child to think about others in a way that goes beyond surface-level interactions. If you haven’t noticed, our society has a big problem with that. 

Lead by Example

Children learn the most about gratitude through watching you. If you want your kids to express gratitude and approach gifting meaningfully, that’s where it starts. Show them what it looks like to genuinely appreciate someone else’s effort.

When your kids witness you recognizing and acknowledging others, they’ll be more likely to follow suit.

Be intentional about gifting, too. Talk to your kids about why you’re choosing a certain item. Share how you hope it makes the other person feel. 

Wrapping It Up – Yeah, We Did That on Purpose

Instilling gratitude and meaningful gifting is one of the greatest lessons we can impart as parents.

Monetary value of the gift is irrelevant. It’s about the thought, intention, and love behind it. Modeling these behaviors ourselves equips our children with the tools to develop kindness and appreciation in their hearts. 

Small actions leave a lasting impact. It’s in these everyday moments that we shape the people they’ll grow up to be.