How can gratitude be used as a tool to connect our families? In the ninth, and last, episode of the Parent Project Podcast, parents and grandparents share why they use gratitude as a practice to foster connection, especially in the face of challenges.
When life is busy or tough, it is good to stand still and take the time to see the things that do go well. It can be big things, but often feeling gratitude for the smaller things in life can help brighten up our day. “It’s about not taking things for granted”, says Katie Watt in the podcast. “Kids are so good at that, noticing the small moment. They see how amazing it is, that a centipede just made it across the driveway.”
Gratitude can be used as a way of validating and strengthening the bonds within your family. Podcast host Kate Nash started expressing gratitude at the dinner table when her kids were little. “I didn’t want to complain about things that didn’t go well throughout the day, and wanted to focus on something great instead,” she says. “When our kids were little, we often asked ‘What’s your favourite part of the day?’ and then when they got older, it transitioned into mentioning things we were grateful for. It became a tool for us to navigate hard times.”
Do you want to know how gratitude can help your family when times are rough? You can listen to the ninth episode of the Parent Project Podcast here (or in your favourite podcast app).
For each episode of the Parent Project Podcast, host Kate Nash curated games, activities, resources, reflections and family practices to use, listen to, and do at home.
Game
Gratitude A-Z.
An A-Z gratitude game is a fun and engaging way to practice mindfulness and appreciation. Players list things they are thankful for, one for each letter of the alphabet, starting with “A” and working their way through “Z.” This game can be played individually or in groups, making it a great activity for family gatherings, classrooms, or even as a simple daily practice.
Activity
Incorporate gratitude practice into each day. You can express gratitude for one another, or aspects of the day.
Watch
Watch Brene Brown talking about gratitude
Reflection
Answer these questions:
How do you practice gratitude with your family?
What are the ways that you personally role model gratitude with your kids?
