Gratitude Activities for Kids: Changing the Way Kids See the World
Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a powerful mindset that helps kids notice the good in themselves, in others, and in the world around them—even when things are tough.
By teaching children simple, age-appropriate gratitude practices, we can help them develop emotional resilience, increase their happiness, and foster a stronger connection to others. In fact, research indicates that gratitude is associated with improved sleep, reduced behavioral issues, enhanced self-esteem, and increased optimism in children.
In this post, we’ll explore how gratitude ties into social emotional learning (SEL), why it matters, and how to introduce gratitude activities for kids at school or home in a way that’s meaningful and lasting.
Why Gratitude Matters for Emotional Well-Being
At its core, gratitude shifts a child’s attention from what’s lacking to what’s present—from scarcity to abundance.
When practiced regularly, gratitude helps children:
- Increase self-awareness and emotional regulation
- Feel more optimistic and connected to their community
- Experience fewer stress-related reactions
- Improve classroom behavior and relationships
By making gratitude a habit, we help kids anchor themselves in joy, connection, and hope—especially during moments of challenge.
Learn how gratitude fits into a full Social Emotional Learning program with Soul Shoppe’s Elementary SEL Curriculum.
How Gratitude Connects to SEL Competencies
Expressing gratitude is not just a “feel-good” idea—it’s a core SEL practice that supports the five foundational competencies:
| SEL Competency | How Gratitude Helps |
| Self-Awareness | Encourages reflection on personal values and emotions |
| Self-Management | Builds positive self-talk and reduces impulsive behavior |
| Social Awareness | Cultivates empathy and appreciation for others |
| Relationship Skills | Strengthens friendships and classroom bonds |
| Responsible Decision-Making | Helps children act with kindness and intention |
Gratitude Activities for Kids (By Age Group)
For Younger Kids (PreK–2nd Grade)
- Gratitude Circle Time
Invite each child to share one thing they’re grateful for—big or small. Use sentence starters like:
- “Today I’m thankful for…”
- “Something that made me smile is…”
- Thank You Card Crafts
Have children decorate cards for friends, teachers, custodians, or family members. This builds appreciation and teaches recognition of others’ contributions. - Gratitude Jar
Keep a class jar where kids drop in notes about things they appreciate. Read them aloud at the end of the week to reinforce community.
For Older Kids (Grades 3–6)
- Gratitude Journals
Offer a few minutes each day or week for kids to write:
- 3 things they’re grateful for
- A person who made their day better
- A time they felt proud or appreciated
- “Gratitude Walk” Reflection
After recess or PE, take a walk and have kids silently notice things they enjoy: the sun, fresh air, laughter, nature. Debrief with a group reflection. - “Thank a Classmate” Challenges
Encourage students to write short anonymous notes recognizing classmates for kindness, effort, or positive actions. Share some aloud with permission.
Gratitude Games and Group Activities
- Gratitude Freeze Dance
Play music and have kids dance around. When the music stops, each child names one thing they’re thankful for before dancing resumes. - Gratitude Charades
Instead of acting out typical words, have kids act out moments of gratitude (e.g., receiving help, hugging a friend, playing together). - Alphabet Gratitude Game
As a group, try to name something to be grateful for, for each letter of the alphabet—“A is for acts of kindness,” “B is for best friends,” etc.
Tips for Building a Gratitude Culture in the Classroom
- Model It Daily: Let students hear what you’re grateful for. This shows it’s important for adults too.
- Validate All Emotions: Gratitude isn’t about ignoring hard feelings. It’s about noticing goodness alongside challenge.
- Encourage Specificity: Instead of “I’m grateful for my friends,” prompt “I’m grateful that Lily sat with me at lunch.”
- Celebrate Effort, Not Just Outcome: “I noticed how much effort you put into that drawing. It made my day!”
Reframing Through Gratitude
Sometimes, kids need support to reframe setbacks into growth. It takes practice, but working on reframing a negative outcome can really help reshape the way they perceive setbacks. For example:
- “I didn’t get chosen for the team.” → “I’m grateful I tried something new and now I know what to work on.”
- “My friend was mad at me.” → “I’m thankful we talked it out, and I learned how to listen better.”
This type of mindset shift builds grit, hope, and self-esteem—especially when modeled by trusted adults.
Extend the Practice at Home
Encourage families to:
- Share “one thing you’re thankful for” at dinner or bedtime
- Keep a shared gratitude journal
- Take turns writing thank-you notes to neighbors, mail carriers, or caregivers
Gratitude practiced at home reinforces emotional skills and nurtures secure family bonds.
Gratitude Is a Daily Practice, Not a Once-a-Year Lesson
Using gratitude is more than a November classroom theme. When integrated into routines, conversations, and lessons, it becomes a way of seeing the world—with compassion, curiosity, and connection.
Whether you’re using a Feelings Poster, exploring our Tools of the Heart program, or just starting a simple gratitude journal, every step helps kids feel more grounded, safe, and optimistic about the world and their place in it.