A Blog by Santasa Counselling
In a world full of quick clicks and instant treats, it’s easy for children to forget the power of a simple “thank you.” But teaching gratitude isn't just about manners — it's about raising emotionally aware, kind-hearted, and resilient children.
At Santasa Counselling, we believe gratitude is a daily practice — a quiet strength that blossoms over time. Here's how you, as parents, can gently plant and nurture this beautiful habit at home. 🌱💖
🧠 Why Gratitude Matters
Gratitude helps children:
Feel more positive emotions 😊
Improve relationships with family and friends 💕
Build resilience during challenges 🌈
Develop empathy and kindness 💗
And the best part? It's simple to start at home.
🏡 7 Gratitude Activities for Parents & Children
1. 📝 The Gratitude Jar
Place a jar in the living room or kitchen. Every night, encourage your child to drop in a small note or drawing of something they're thankful for.
🧒🏼 “Amma made my favourite dosa.”
👧🏽 “Papa fixed my broken toy.”
🫶 Weekend ritual: Open the jar and read the notes together.
2. 📚 Gratitude Story Time with Amar Chitra Katha
Use storytelling to spark emotional reflection and discussion. Amar Chitra Katha is filled with tales that promote gratitude, kindness, sacrifice, and humility.
✨ Recommended Reads:
“Shibi and Other Tales” – King Shibi gives up part of his body to protect a dove. A powerful lesson in selfless giving.
“Sudama” – The heartwarming tale of Krishna’s gratitude and love for his childhood friend.
“Birbal the Wise” – Teaches us to value intelligence, fairness, and acts of kindness.
“Rani of Jhansi” – Encourages children to appreciate bravery, loyalty, and community support.
🧠 Try this: After each story, ask, “What are you thankful for today?”
3. 🌳 Thank You Nature Walk
Go for a walk and say thank you to the sun, trees, animals, and even the breeze. 🌞🌳🐿️
“Thank you, trees, for giving us air.”
“Thank you, clouds, for the shade.”
“Thank you, ants, for cleaning up crumbs!”
🧘 This builds mindfulness and appreciation for the world around them.
4. 🎨 Gratitude Art Wall
Create a “Thankfulness Corner” at home. Children can draw, paint, or stick pictures of what they feel grateful for.
📌 Label it: “Things That Make Me Smile” 😊
5. 🧁 Bake and Share
Bake a treat together and gift it to a neighbour or school helper with a little thank-you card.
🎁 This teaches the joy of giving and expressing appreciation — not just receiving.
6. 🎲 Dinner Table Thankfulness Game
Every evening, go around the table and ask,
“What are 3 things you’re thankful for today?”
Even tough days hide small joys — help your child discover them.
7. 📬 Gratitude Letters
Guide your child to write (or draw) a thank-you letter to someone who made their day special — a friend, a teacher, or even a shopkeeper.
💌 It's a lasting memory and a kind gesture.
📖 Bonus Magic: A Gratitude Story from Santasa
🎉 Don’t miss our Santasa Magic story:
🌈 “Mira and the Invisible Gift” — a heartwarming tale of a little girl who learns how powerful a simple “thank you” can be when she meets the Thank-You Fairy.
💬 Final Thoughts
Gratitude doesn’t need grand gestures. It grows in the small, repeated moments — a smile, a kind word, a thoughtful pause. 🌻
As parents, your daily actions are the best teachings. So, let your child catch you saying thank you — to them, to your partner, to life. 🌟
Because when children learn to notice the good, they grow into adults who create good in the world.
With warmth and wisdom,
Keerthi B Nadig
Founder, Santasa Counselling
💛 For parenting tips, or child counselling sessions, connect with us today!
