Importance of Gratitude

The Importance of Children Practicing Gratitude

As we head towards the end of the year and students start to feel tired and potentially unsure about upcoming changes for the new year, it is important for them to continue to practice gratitude. Practicing gratitude is an important skill to develop and can help children feel happier and more satisfied. 

Gratitude is a powerful and positive emotion that focuses on a deeper acknowledgement of the positive things in life. Practicing gratitude can help to improve optimism, increase social connection, supports social and emotional skills and improve sleep quality and duration. 

Some fantastic and simply ways to practice gratitude could include:

A gratitude journal 

Each day children write down something they are grateful for. They could be something very simple like "I am grateful that I got to play with a friend". 

A gratitude conversation around the table

A great dinner conversation could include asking questions like:

• What were 3 things that happened at school today?
• What was something that went well for you today?
• What is something you are grateful for today?

Gratitude jar

Each day children write down something they are grateful for. They put it in a jar. At the end of the week or month, read through each one with your child. 

Thank you letters or notes 

Children write a thank you letter or note to someone they are grateful for and explain why they are grateful for them. 

Laura Ellis

Mitcham Primary School 

Learning Specialist - Student Wellbeing