November is a time when gratitude is everywhere, but it’s easy for the idea of thankfulness to get lost in the busyness of everyday life. Gratitude doesn’t have to be something saved for special occasions. Small, simple habits can make it part of everyday family life in a meaningful way.

Making Gratitude Real for Kids

Kids notice the little things and learn by watching. When moments of appreciation happen naturally, they start to recognize what they’re thankful for, too. Playing with toys that reflect kindness, diversity, and care for the planet is another way gratitude can come alive in everyday life.

Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude Together

Here are some easy ways to bring more thankfulness into the home this month:

• Thank-you notes or drawings: A quick note or picture for someone who made the day better can go a long way.

• Family gratitude walk: Take a stroll and share things you notice that bring happiness or appreciation.

• Gratitude jar: Keep a jar in a common space with slips of paper and pencils. Everyone can jot down something they’re thankful for each day and read them together at the end of the month.

• Dinner table sharing: Take a moment at meals to name one good thing from the day. Keeping it light and easy makes it fun for everyone.

• Giving together: Let kids choose a toy or book to donate to another child. Sharing what they love helps them feel the joy of giving. Choosing gifts that inspire creativity, kindness, and curiosity makes the act even more meaningful. 

• Modeling gratitude: Saying thank you often, whether to kids, partners, or someone helping along the way, shows that appreciation is part of everyday life.

Gratitude helps kids feel connected, grounded, and compassionate. When it’s part of daily life, they learn that joy doesn’t just come from receiving, but from noticing and appreciating what’s already around them.

 Toys that give back! These kits are made in Cowansville, with the support of Pleins Rayons, a non-profit that employs adults with mental disabilities.

 More than an ornament, this is a fun seed-starting activity for families. A gift that doesn't get thrown away, but lives on and teaches kids the appreciation of growing their own food.

Diverse toys are a great way to promote inclusiveness, teaching our kids empathy, gratitude, and appreciation for all the differences we see in our communities.