5 Awesome Activities to Unleash Kids’ Gratitude Spirit Early On
As parents, we always look for ways to help our little ones grow into kind, thoughtful, and happy individuals. One of the most valuable gifts we can give them is an appreciation mindset—the ability to notice and value the good things in life, big or small. Teaching kids gratitude early on builds resilience, positivity, and strong relationships. But how do we introduce such a big concept to little minds? Spoiler alert: it’s easier (and more fun) than you might think!
In this post, we’ll explore why an early appreciation mindset matters and share five simple, engaging activities to help your kids embrace gratitude naturally. Let’s dive in!
Why an Appreciation Mindset Matters for Kids
Kids are naturally curious and absorbent—like little sponges soaking up the world around them. When we teach them to appreciate what they have—whether it’s a sunny day, a yummy snack, or a hug from a loved one—they learn to focus on the positive. Studies, like those from Greater Good Magazine by UC Berkeley, show that gratitude in children is linked to better emotional health, improved focus in school, and even stronger friendships. Plus, it’s a habit that sticks with them into adulthood.
And the trick? Start early and keep it fun! Little kids might not grasp abstract ideas like “thankfulness” right away, but they can learn through play, repetition, and example. Ready to get started? Here are five activities to weave appreciation into their everyday lives.
5 Fun Activities to Teach Kids an Appreciation Mindset
The Thank-you Treasure Hunt: Turn gratitude into an adventure! Grab a basket or a little bag and tell your kids you’re going on a “Thank-You Treasure Hunt.” Set a timer (5-10 minutes works great for little attention spans) and ask them to find three things in the house or yard they’re thankful for—like their favorite toy, a cozy blanket, or a flower outside. Once they’ve gathered their treasures, sit together and discuss why they picked each one. It’s a hands-on way to get them thinking about what they love!
Pro Tip
Let them decorate their treasure bag with stickers or crayons for extra fun.
The Gratitude Jar Game: This one’s a classic with a twist! Find a jar or container and some colorful paper strips. Each day (or once a week), have your child write or draw something they’re happy about—like “playing with my dog” or “eating ice cream.” If they’re too young to write, you can jot it down for them. Pop the slips into the jar, and at the end of the month, read them aloud together. Watching the jar fill up is a visual reminder of all the good stuff in their lives!
Why Does It Work?
It’s a low-pressure way to practice appreciation daily—and doubles as a sweet keepsake.
Say It with a Smile: Kids love silly games, so why not make saying “thank you” a blast? Start a habit where everyone in the family says one thing they’re thankful for at dinner or bedtime—but here’s the catch: you have to say it with a big, goofy smile! Maybe your little one says, “I’m thankful for my dinosaur pajamas!” while grinning ear to ear. It’s a lighthearted way to connect appreciation with joy.
Bonus
Model it yourself—kids mimic what they see, so your smile will inspire theirs!
The Appreciation Art Project: Break out the crayons, markers, or paint, and let your kids get creative! Ask them to draw a picture of something or someone they’re thankful for—maybe Grandma, their best friend, or even their favorite park. While they work, chat about why that person or thing makes them happy. Hang their masterpiece on the fridge or in their room as a colorful gratitude reminder.
Why Do Kids Love It?
It combines creativity with reflection—perfect for little artists!
The Kindness Boomerang: Teach kids that appreciation isn’t just about feeling grateful—it’s about showing it, too. Play the “Kindness Boomerang” game: do something nice for someone (like making a card for a neighbor or helping a sibling), then talk about how it felt to make someone else happy. Explain that kindness comes back around, just like a boomerang! It’s a simple way to link appreciation with action.
Try This:
Start small—help them pick a flower for a friend and watch their pride bloom.
Making Appreciation a Family Habit
The best part about these activities? They’re not just for kids—you can join in too! When your little ones see you practicing gratitude, it becomes second nature to them. Try keeping your gratitude jar or sharing a “thank-you moment” at the dinner table. Over time, appreciation won’t just be a game—it’ll be a way of life.
Wrapping It Up: Start Small, Grow Big
Building an appreciation mindset in kids doesn’t happen overnight, but it’ll stick with a sprinkle of fun and consistency. These five activities are easy to weave into your routine, turning abstract ideas into something tangible for little learners. So, grab that jar, put on your silliest smile, and start teaching your kids to see the world through grateful eyes. What’s one thing you’re thankful for today? Share it with your little one—they might surprise you with their answer!
Do you have a favorite gratitude trick? Share it in the comments. I’d love to hear how you’re inspiring appreciation in your family!
If you want to learn more about other activities you can do with your little ones, check out this blog post for inspiration.
