Thank You Thursday- Two Simple Words

Two Words can go a long way! Think of some of the ones we use everyday....get dressed, stop that, come on, dinner time, get off, listen now! Words can so easily be a negative part of our day. Thank you seems like such a simple phrase, and yet we reserve it for special times. We encourage our children to say it when they are young. So why do we not require the same of ourselves?
This time of year is a great time to reflect on being thankful. We have just celebrated numerous holidays, eaten food that makes us think about dieting, and started a new year, and hopefully we are healthy. It is also a great time to teach our kids about being thankful. But the coolest part about being thankful...it is always in style. People like to know that you appreciate what they have done for you.
In today's world we sometimes forget the simple, yet effective way of saying thanks...a Thank You Note - most kids have never even written one! And yet, think how you feel when someone takes the time to write one to you. Kids are never too young to learn how important this is. Here are a few simple ways to help your children learn the importance of thank you writing:

1. Keep it Simple: Don't make them write all the notes at one time. Have them do 3 a day until they are done. Also, let them keep the note inside simple and to the point. If the children are young, ask them what they want to write, and you put it down for them.

2. Make it Fun!: Most kids will think of this as a chore...so make it a craft or game. Create a special shoe box of supplies. Pull it out when it is time to write the notes. Have fun pens, paper, and art supplies in it.

3. Let your child be Creative: Try not to tell them the proper way to do it. Let them to be creative and explore new ways to say thank you. After all, is there really a wrong way to say thanks?

Kids like to show appreciation, they just need to be encouraged to do so. Take the time to instill this value in your child. It will serve them throughout their whole lives. Being grateful is a trait that will only help in their adult years.

Some Fun Ways to Create a Thank You Card:

• Use old Christmas cards or greeting cards to create new thank you cards.
• Decorate white paper with stamps to create your own stationery.
• Use a paper plate to create an unusual shaped card.
• Use kids hand prints to create flowers, reindeer, and many other creations. This is great for family, so they can watch the child grow.

More great ideas can be found online! Hey...thanks for reading!

Melinda