A November post about gratitude

Hello RRC Families!

If you're anything like me, you're still trying to wrap your head around the fact that it is November. We're two months into the school year, eight weeks into the NFL season (Go Bills!), and six months into our new space at Kreag Rd. While I'm certainly thankful for all the important things (like health, family and friends, and this practice). I'm also thanksful that a win's a win (again, Go Bills!) and that we finally have a date for the carpet to get installed on the stairs! It's important to be graful for the little things too.

Here are a couple of my older November posts:

Not your standard post about gratitude: why the little things really do matter

Tis the season to be grateful: about how to teach children about gratitude

Today though, Catherine is sharing some thoughts on gratitude.

As always, we are so grateful for our RRC families.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Dr. Kate

Growing up, like many families, we sat at the Thanksgiving table and went around to share gratitude for things in our lives. My mother-in-law uses 5 kernels of corn to represent the hardships the Pilgrims went through. For each kernel we share our gratitude. Although Thanksgiving can be a time of reflection for all we have, we can implement gratitude practices daily. 

I have spoken to many families who use the rose and thorn technique to help kids highlight that good things and not so good things can coexist. It also helps children to learn that we can see the good even in the hard times. A daily practice of gratitude can lead to greater happiness. Gratitude changes the way our brain works by activating the parts in our brain that grow resiliency, helps relationships, and boosts our physical and mental health. Gratitude also helps us regulate our nervous system by shifting our focus from what we lack to what brings us joy. As our system regulates, we move into a wise mindset and can make thoughtful decisions, respond effectively, and boost our mood. 

As caregivers we can help our children to start their own gratitude practice. Here are some quick tips focused on gratitude.

1. Model gratitude by sharing something you are grateful for every day.

2. Invite your children to share gratitude. 

3. Highlight the positive in your children’s lives. 

4. Volunteer in your community. 

5. Practice one-mindfulness. Focus on one task at a time and lean fully into it. 

6. Build positive experiences by taking time to do things you love with your family. 

7. Express love and gratitude for your children.

In fact, “thank you” is a way of saying “I love you.” 

Fred Rogers