Regularly practicing gratitude is powerful for those who want to lead a happier, healthier life. Gratitude impacts almost all aspects of our lives. Being appreciative for what we have has been scientifically linked to better relationships, physical health, mental health, and self-esteem.
With all that being said, it's undeniable that teaching our kids how to be grateful is incredibly important. But the idea of gratitude may seem like an abstract or intangible concept for children, especially younger ones. What's the point of saying thank you, exactly?
To help illustrate (sometimes literally) the importance of gratitude, we rounded up 15 of the best children's books to really get the concept of thankfulness across.
'Thanks a Million'
This book comprises 16 different poems, from a haiku to a riddle, reminding us how good it feels to be thankful for what we have. It's perfect for any budding writer.
'A Chair for My Mother'
The classic children's book, A Chair for My Mother, is a staple read. After a tragic fire destroys all their belongings, Rosa, her mother, and her grandmother all save enough coins to buy a comfortable chair for the three of them to share. The touching story will make any reader feel grateful for what they have.
'The Giving Tree'
The Giving Tree is a simple but powerful children's book that teaches to not take others' love for granted. This timeless classic was originally published over 50 years ago, but the message still makes an impact.
'Last Stop on Market Street'
The fact that Last Stop on Market Street won the 2016 Newbery Medal is a testament to how impactful the story is on its readers. The book follows CJ and his grandma as they ride the bus across town after church. As they ride through the bustling city, CJ asks his grandma why he doesn't have things other people do, like a nice car. His grandma offers nuggets of wisdom that show him to be thankful for what they do have.
'Gracias/Thanks'
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In this Spanish and English book, a young boy counts his blessings and everything he is thankful for, such as playing outside. It's a great example to teach kids how to do the same.
'The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings '
There are so many wonderful Berenstain Bears stories to help teach children important values. For thankfulness, we recommend The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings. In this children's book from 1995, the bears count their blessings as a way to find comfort during an impending storm.
'Apple Cake: A Gratitude'
Apple Cake: A Gratitude is a sweet but simple read. Written in rhymes, a young girl thanks everything that nature provides as she makes her family an apple cake.
'Bear Says Thanks'
In this Thanksgiving-esque children's book, Bear is throwing a dinner party for his friends. What ensues is a celebration of friends and family — and a sweet reminder that giving thanks is always in vogue.
'A Thank You Walk'
It's easy to overlook the simple pleasures in life, such as a child's smile or the birds chirping outside. This children's book reminds us of them. It's a great read for even the littlest kids.
'We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga'
This award-winning children's book is written by an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation and uses their culture to teach about gratitude. The Cherokee Nation uses the word otsaliheliga to express gratitude, and this book follows different traditions, celebrations and experiences of how the Cherokee Nation does just that.
'Llama Llama Gives Thanks'
In Llama Llama Gives Thanks, Llama and his family are getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving. With that comes giving thanks. This book is great for toddlers because of the cheerful illustrations and storyline.
'Thanks from the Very Hungry Caterpillar'
In this picture book, the Very Hungry Caterpillar from the best-selling children's books, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, teaches us how to celebrate and be thankful for all the things we have in our lives. It's a great addition to any child's bookshelf and they'll be thrilled to have another story starring their favorite caterpillar.
'Those Shoes'
Written over 10 years ago, this book is still a favorite among parents for teaching kids how to be both grateful and kind. It follows a young boy, Jeremy, who feels bad for not owning the style of shoes everyone else has. Over the course of the story, he learns that everything else he has in his life means much more than a stylish pair of shoes.
'Splat Says Thank You!'
For a fun and quirky children's book choice, pick up Splat Says Thank You! from the Splat the Cat series. Splat wants to help his mouse friend Seymour and decides the way to do that is by creating a sweet thank you book.
