Let your children know you appreciate them

Your children, more than anyone else, need to see, hear, and feel your gratitude. Not only are you teaching them manners, like “Please” and “Thank you,” but you’re also nurturing them to grow into strong, secure adults who show their own gratitude toward others.

Use these tips to show gratitude to your children:

1. Say “Thank you” every time they hand you something, do you a favor, or listen to instructions.

2. Let the hugs, kisses, compliments and rewards be plentiful in showing your appreciation:

You can say things like:

• Thank you! Great job.
• I love the way you did that. Thank you.
• You were so sweet to help me sort the laundry. Thanks.
• Thank you for helping me cook dinner. Now we can enjoy our meal together.
• Thank you for helping me clean the house! Thanks to you, I can get some time to relax!
• Thank you for being you. I love you just the way you are!
• I’m so happy we get to spend the day together!
• I’m so glad you’re my son!
• I love having these Mother/Daughter days! It’s so fun being with you!

3. Thank and congratulate them for their wise choices when they make
good decisions.