As we prepare to embark on the season of gratitude, many of us will be reflecting on all we have to be thankful for. However, gratitude is something we should strive to instill in our children year-round. During this global pandemic, it is easy to get discouraged and caught up in the limitations it has placed on our lives. To counteract this, it is more important now than ever that we work to practice gratitude in our daily lives. A regular gratitude practice is proven to increase dopamine and serotonin, the two neurotransmitters that impact a positive mood. Encouraging children to practice these skills at a young age is essential to their social and emotional wellbeing. Here are four strategies to help you foster a culture of gratitude in your home. 

1. Practice reflective exercises: As is the case with anything, with practice things become easier, and gratitude is no different. To be able to reflect on what we are grateful for can become second nature when encouraged and practiced regularly. These reflective exercises can be done through activities such as daily journaling, family dinner discussions, or creating a family gratitude jar. No matter the activity, the goal is the same: allow children to take the time to identify what they are grateful for in their daily life, even when things seem difficult or mundane. 
   
   
2. Expose them to different experiences: It is easy to get caught up and give in to our children’s requests for things and gifts. However, experiential gifts can foster far more family connection and individual growth than a belonging ever could. These experiences allow children to better understand the world around them and their place within it. This increased knowledge will likely lead to a better perspective, which will impact their ability to recognize and be grateful for all they have. 
   
   
3. Encourage community service: Instituting community service into your family life can also help children with perspective-taking. For community service to be the most impactful, it should be implemented over time. This will allow children to see the benefits that come from their dedication and work, helping them appreciate the value that they can bring to others. 
   
   
4. Lead by example: The best way for our children to fully embrace a practice is to show it in action. As parents, we know our children are always watching our actions and words, and gratitude as a family practice will facilitate buy-in from children. Now more than ever, we would all likely benefit from slowing down, looking around, and counting our blessings.