As we pack Halloween away, and transition to Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s time to welcome a season of giving and gratitude. We have so much in our home that we are packing up to give away to people who need those things more than we do. And we plan on purchasing items to donate locally. Although Jayden isn’t aware of how good he actually has it, were are trying to gradually introduce him to helping others.
Last year, when we donated to Toys for Tots, he didn’t quite get that but this year, he will be able to understand a little more. He refers to all children as his “friends” so if we explain to him that “friends” are hungry and need “presents”, he will understand. And as the years go by, he’ll develop strong compassion for helping others. Him being the only child with an estate like 5 times larger than what I had growing up, makes me very conscious. I want to see that he doesn’t take anything for granted.
I see his gratitude in the little things. It’s one thing to speak using manners such as, “Thank you”, but he has a way of expressing himself. When we painted his room, he ran his hands over the walls and said they were beautiful. He was so excited! My mother got him a new comforter and he ran his hands over it and said, “Ooo this is nice!” Whenever we give him something to eat whether it’s a slice of bread or a cup of water, he expresses his gratitude with a “Thank you, Mommy! Thank you, Daddy!” “I love bread! Mmm this is delicious!” Whether it’s a new pair of undies or a coloring book, he appreciates them so much! As he grows into a man, I hope he continues to express his gratitude and share his gifts with those who need them.
How do you teach your children to be grateful and express gratitude?
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Sojourner Marable Grimmett
Thursday 3rd of November 2011
Great photo!
Sheena
Friday 11th of November 2011
Thank you!
Shannon
Wednesday 2nd of November 2011
He's so cute! I think it's so good that you're teaching him these things.
Sheena
Friday 11th of November 2011
Thank you! :)
nofrillscoupons
Wednesday 2nd of November 2011
You have a boy who has a beautiful heart....
Sheena
Friday 11th of November 2011
:)
Cynthia Lopez
Wednesday 2nd of November 2011
Bring Life to our Children, They Become What you tell them, or teach them.... Teach them gratitude and they will recieve all the blessings it comes with. Thank you for this. Children are missing out on this quality and end up being ungrateful, but I believe it begins with us.. if we introduce it, they will embrace it and run with it... Love to Love this!!! Yes, Yes, and Yes.. #Jayden is lucky to have picked such profound parents to journey life with..When I have the children in my village for how every long it is,, I make sure gratitude, such as a simple THANK YOU comes with ease out of their mouthes or an embrace of Thanks and now that my God Child is older, I will take him with me when I volunteer, to give back. I even given them mirror excerises. as telling themselves that they appreciate and love them.... :) #Charactor Building.
Sheena
Friday 11th of November 2011
*fist bump*!
Stephanie Precourt
Wednesday 2nd of November 2011
Oh, precious. Steph
Sheena
Friday 11th of November 2011
:)