How to Help Your Child Achieve an Attitude of Gratitude

It is common to see people praying to God when things are not going perfectly. Television shows show students praying furtively before an exam they did not study for, drivers praying they can make it to work on time, or football players praying they can score in the last few seconds of play. Prayer is a powerful tool, but it should be used more than in times of strife. Teaching your children to appreciate the good side of life will give them an attitude of gratitude. The Diocese of Orlando and our private schools in Orange and Seminole counties understand God’s presence in all that is good and invite our faithful to share the blessings of faith with their children.

• In situations where not everything is flowing smoothly, look for the silver lining. Many times when something negative happens, such as forgetting to pack lunch, God provides what you need with friends who share what they have. The camaraderie of shared meals could invoke a friendship that was made possible by a forgotten lunchbox.
• A positive attitude – an attitude of gratitude – strengthens happiness. As parents, you can instill this attitude in your child with your actions. When your car is low on gas, reflect on how wonderful it is to have a vehicle you can freely drive wherever you want. It is difficult to find a daily situation you cannot rejoice in. Even large obstacles on the road to happiness can divert you to a side road you never would have known.
• Children raised with an attitude of gratitude are more resilient. They understand that perseverance generally overcomes life’s problems. They are less likely to suffer from depression, their relationships are more positive with other individuals, they choose employment in businesses they appreciate instead of working at a “dead end” job, and are much more likely to reach the goals they set for themselves.
• With an attitude of gratitude, it is easier to feel loved, accepted, and valued. Problems are something to solve, not something to dread. The relationships shared among family members and friends are more stable.
• News programs often focus on what is wrong, and the world is perceived as a scary place. Turn the television off and focus instead on all that is right around you. You will find the balance tips much more to the positive than the negative.

Turn your life and your relationship with your child into a positive experience by commenting on small, happy moments. Your child will realize their world is a splendid area of discovery. The Diocese of Orlando’s private schools in Orange and Seminole counties teach God’s positive presence in their actions and activities. Learn more about the possibilities of a Catholic education by calling 407-246-4903.