First Thoughts…
Play is one of life’s simplest joys, a powerful way for children and adults alike to engage in the moment and form lasting bonds. As we look for ways to encourage gratitude with children, play offers a unique opportunity to foster thankfulness naturally. By embracing gratitude through playful activities, we can teach children to appreciate simple joys, connect more deeply with others, and find wonder in the world around them. Here are three ways to explore gratitude through play, from modeling thankfulness to creating joyful family moments.
The Joy of Playing with Presence
When we are with children, it is important for us to provide three things for them: eye contact, comfortable touch and presence. In today’s fast-paced world, one of the greatest gifts we can give children is our undivided attention. When we enter into play with children fully, setting aside our worries and digital distractions, we show them the joy of being present. This level of connection is rare and valuable; it demonstrates that playtime is worth our attention and that these shared experiences that are mostly directed by the child hold significance. Children sense when we are “all in” during play, and they respond with enthusiasm and joy, knowing that they have our full focus.
Playing with presence teaches children that play is something to be grateful for—a moment to share and cherish. Whether building towers, engaging in imaginative scenarios, or playing outdoors, fully present play instills a sense of value and importance in the experience. Children begin to understand that these moments together are something special, something they can look back on with appreciation. Over time, they associate gratitude with the simple joy of being with others, learning that presence itself is a gift.
Playing to Understand and Express Gratitude
Gratitude is a concept children can explore and understand through play. This “attitude of gratitude” is an emotion that can be cultivated in any of our interactions with children and more importantly, in our own lives as are so often observed by those children! During playtime, we can encourage children to take turns sharing what they’re grateful for, incorporating thankfulness into their imaginative scenarios. For instance, during a “tea party” or a pretend picnic, each participant can express appreciation for something before taking a pretend “sip” or “bite.” Perhaps we can ask them what they appreciate about the play experience itself, whether it’s the toys, the people they’re with, or even the game they’re playing.
When children voice their thanks during play, they start to see gratitude as a natural part of interactions. Gratitude doesn’t have to be complex—it can be a simple acknowledgment of joy or kindness. For older children, gratitude games can involve deeper reflections, like thanking the friend who taught them the game, the person who made their toys, or even the animals in a nature-based play area. These small exercises plant the seeds for grateful hearts, teaching them that acknowledging good things makes the experience even richer.
By integrating gratitude into play, children gain a deeper sense of appreciation and learn that expressing thanks is not only polite but also enriching. They realize that acknowledging others and the world around them brings a special value to their lives. These lessons will serve them well as they grow, helping them develop a balanced outlook on life where they recognize both small and large moments with appreciation.
Cultivating Family Gratitude Rituals with Play
Another way to instill gratitude is by establishing family play traditions that foster a sense of togetherness. Whether it’s a weekly board game night, regular nature walks, or creative art sessions, shared family playtime becomes a cherished ritual. When these traditions are set, families can build a collective appreciation for the joy of spending time together. Children learn to associate these moments with comfort, joy, and a deep sense of belonging.
Family rituals teach children that gratitude is also about honoring time spent together. These routines become safe havens where they feel connected, valued, and loved. Over time, children come to understand the power of these play moments, and gratitude for their family bonds deepens. As they grow, they look forward to these traditions, building a lifelong appreciation for the simple pleasure of togetherness.
Even as children mature, the memories of family play will stay with them. They might find themselves revisiting old games or taking family nature walks, connecting with gratitude for their upbringing. These rituals and the associated gratitude become a part of their identities, enhancing their sense of value for family and time spent together. By establishing these play-based gratitude rituals, families create lasting memories and valuable perspectives that will serve children well throughout their lives.
Final Thoughts…
Through simple, intentional acts of play, we can teach children the value of gratitude in ways that stay with them for a lifetime. Whether by modeling presence, expressing thanks in imaginative ways, or cultivating family rituals, play becomes a meaningful tool for building grateful hearts. By nurturing a love for play and gratitude together, we give children a powerful foundation for a joyful life filled with appreciation.
Play well,
Sharon
