Gratitude jars: A fun way to inspire kindness in kids
What's the story
Gratitude jars help kids develop a positive outlook by teaching them to recognize and appreciate the good things in their lives.
This fun activity fosters gratitude by encouraging them to write down things they're thankful for, creating a "jar of joy" to look back on.
It's a great way to cultivate a sense of contentment and kindness from a young age.
Setup
Starting with simple materials
First, collect a few basic supplies: a jar, paper, and something to write or draw with.
Any jar will do! Think empty mason jar or even a cleaned-out pasta sauce jar.
Cut the paper into strips or squares that will fit inside the jar.
Provide pens, pencils, or colorful markers for kids to write or draw their messages of gratitude.
Routine
Creating a daily gratitude ritual
Make the gratitude jar a part of your child's daily routine by designating a specific time each day for them to write down something they're grateful for.
It could be as simple as enjoying the sunshine or as special as a friend's kindness.
This daily routine not only strengthens the habit of acknowledging positivity but also infuses gratitude into their everyday lives.
Sharing
Sharing gratitude with others
Invite children to read out their gratitude jar entries to family or friends once a week.
This can be done during family dinners or at bedtime, creating a special routine of sharing and discussing gratitude.
It allows everyone to reflect on their own moments of gratitude and observe the positive influence their expressions of thankfulness have on others, fostering greater empathy and understanding in relationships.
Reflection
Reflecting on past entries
Every once in a while, let your child dump out their jar and relive those memories with you.
This act of reflection allows children to recall all the positivity that has occurred, fostering a sense of happiness and contentment.
"It reminds us that even the smallest things can make us happy, and that we should always be grateful."
Community
Expanding beyond personal gratitude
Prompt your child to go beyond thanking individuals by writing thank-you notes for whole communities or groups they're part of, like their entire class at school or their soccer team.
This helps children understand the ripple effect of kindness and gratitude in a community, fostering a sense of social thankfulness along with personal appreciation.