Teaching Your Children Thankfulness: Faith-Based Lessons for the Thanksgiving Season

Scripture: Psalm 107:1 – “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time to slow down and teach our children the beauty of gratitude. In a world filled with distractions, comparison, and constant wanting, thankfulness is a spiritual discipline that anchors their hearts to God. As single mothers, we carry the double weight of leading, nurturing, and shaping our children’s perspectives — and gratitude is one of the most powerful gifts we can give them.

Creating a Spirit of Thankfulness at Home

Teaching gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated. It begins with modeling it in the everyday moments — thanking God for small blessings, acknowledging answered prayers, and highlighting kindness we see in others. When our children witness a grateful heart in us, it sets a foundation for their own.

Simple Thanksgiving Traditions That Build Gratitude

Instead of focusing on the busyness of the season, shift the focus to reflection and appreciation. You can create small rhythms with your children that keep their hearts pointed toward God’s goodness:

• A “thankful jar” where each child adds a blessing each day
  
  

• Thankful walks, pointing out God’s creation
  
  

• Sharing one thing God has done each night before bed
  
  

• Making simple crafts that reflect gratitude
  
  

These traditions become lasting memories rooted in faith, not material things.

Helping Children Recognize God as the Source of Every Blessing

Teach your children that thankfulness is not just about what we have — it’s about who God is. When they understand His character, His faithfulness, and His love, gratitude becomes a natural response. Remind them often that God provides, protects, and guides, even when circumstances are challenging.

Scripture to Hold Onto

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” — Psalm 107:1

Prayer

Lord, help me teach my children to live with grateful hearts. Let our home be filled with thankfulness, and may they grow to recognize Your goodness in every season. Amen.

Journaling Prompts

• What blessings has God shown my family this year?
  
  

• How can I model gratitude for my children in simple ways?
  
  

• What opportunities can I create to help my children see God’s goodness?