NACoA’s infographic How to Help Children Develop an Attitude of Gratitude provides some great ideas on how caring adults can help nurture an attitude of gratitude. Gratitude isn’t just for adults. Pint-sized, it helps children balance out negative emotions and stress, find more energy, and increase overall contentment. This state actually reduces incessant complaining, helps boost the brain’s ability to learn, and improves a child’s ability to make better decisions. Even when things are hard and times are challenging, being grateful for seeing a beautiful red cardinal, hearing a baby brother giggle, or smelling fresh baked cookies can help brighten a moment, a mood, and a child’s overall attitude. It isn’t minimizing the hardship, it’s an acknowledgement that there are also beautiful moments each day as well. Remember, the best way caring adults can teach children is by showing them, not just telling them! Phrases like “Isn’t that beautiful?” “Smell those autumn leaves” or “Listening to our cat purr just makes me so happy” can be contagious. It goes a long way to help the children you love develop a healthy attitude of gratitude.