Gratitude, the simple act of recognising and appreciating the positive aspects of life, can profoundly benefit both children and adults. For children, teaching gratitude supports emotional wellbeing and builds stronger social relationships. As adults, building gratitude as a habit makes us more resilient, transforming our mindset during both good times and bad.

A simple and effective way to practice gratitude for all ages is through gratitude journaling.

Gratitude’s Impact on Children

Teaching children gratitude goes beyond simply asking them to say “thank you.” It helps them be happy and improves their wellbeing. In many Mind Marvels sessions, for example, it’s clear that kids genuinely thrive when they are encouraged to recognise and appreciate the good things and the people around them. 

Children who regularly practice gratitude feel more positive about life. They are more likely to maintain relationships because they acknowledge the kindness of others. This recognition of goodness promotes empathy, allowing them to grow emotionally and socially.

Why Building Gratitude Matters for Adults

For adults, practising gratitude has a different but equally transformative effect. Building gratitude in the best of times ensures that gratitude becomes a stabilising force when difficult times arise. 

Gratitude becomes a mindset that allows us to navigate stormy weather with balance and perspective. It turns into an automatic response, shielding us from the pull of negativity. Remember, we’re fighting negative tendencies billions of years in the making!

Rewiring the Mind Through Practice

Gratitude is not a one-time realisation but a daily habit. It rewires the mental habits of the mind, helping us shift away from tendencies like stress, dissatisfaction, and negativity. Children benefit from learning gratitude, but adults must also work at it patiently. By practising consistently, small steps lead to noticeable changes in our mental state and our overall happiness.

A simple and effective way to practice gratitude for all ages is through gratitude journaling. By taking just five minutes a day to write down what we are thankful for—whether it’s something as large as passing a tough exam or as small as a cuddle from a pet—we anchor our thoughts in the positive aspects of life. 

Research has shown that the physical act of writing helps deepen our appreciation, organise our thoughts, and even provide physiological benefits. In one study, participants who journaled their gratitude for just five minutes a day over eight weeks reduced their risk of heart failure!

Tips for Making Gratitude Journaling Effective

1. Be Consistent: Choose a specific time every day to journal. Consistency helps form the habit and makes gratitude an automatic part of your routine.
2. Avoid Gratitude Fatigue: Instead of listing the same things every day, explore new angles or reflect on recurring themes in different ways. This keeps the practice fresh and engaging.
3. Let it Flow: Don’t worry about writing perfect sentences. Let your thoughts flow naturally, and focus on the feeling behind your gratitude rather than the form of the words.
4. Start Small: Initially, it might be hard to think of things to be grateful for. Start wherever you are, even if it’s something as simple as the air you breathe or the chair you sit in.
5. Create a Reminder: Place a post-it note on your fridge or set an alert on your phone to remind yourself to be grateful throughout the day.

Gratitude is a powerful tool for happiness, no matter your age. For children, it provides a foundation of joy and social connectedness. For adults, it strengthens emotional resilience and improves mental and physical health.

This small regular practice helps to shape a positive mindset over time, and once gratitude becomes a daily habit, it will help you through life’s ups and downs.