Nov 022011
 
painted white mason jars spell give thanks for thanksgiving decorationvia Little Miss Momma
 

Thanksgiving is prime time to teach kids gratitude with decorations throughout the house reminding everyone to give thanks. But can kids’ room everyday décor contain gentle reminders of parental lessons be effective in teaching gratitude during the year? You bet it can…..and here are a few ways, from obvious to subtle, to accessorize a room and quietly teach when you’re not around.

This Reeks of Obvious

Provide a flat tree on the wall or corkboard to add “leaves” where they can write something for which they are grateful. Small children enjoy such activities and will want to fill the tree quickly so provide plenty of leaves!

girls room idea for wall mural with fabric leaves on tree

Keep a small basket of pre-strung hearts, smiles or even the letter “T” next to a sculptural tree on the desk or dresser to hang on the tree each time they say “thank you”. Keep the tree in their room as a constant reminder of gratitude shown.

cardboard gratitude tree centerpiece for thanksgiving decorationvia ETSY
 

Kids love to write notes and draw pictures. Use a decorated hatbox, mailbox or other container for delivery of messages of gratitude from one family member to another.

wall mounted kids mailbox indoorsvia Organizing Made Fun
 
Obvious…..But They May Not Realize It

Use a vacant space on kids’ bedroom walls for painted inspirational quotes or applied vinyl press-on lettering. Select your message, targeting gratitude, and watch the attitude shift begin.

wood palette with gratitude quotevia Kerry’s Kronicles
 

Instead of papering the walls with posters of movie stars, pro athletes, or cartoon characters, try framing a favorite quote from grandpa alongside his photo. Each glance will evoke a smile and fond remembrance, instilling gratitude for family.

gratitude quote on canvas for girls room ideavia My Pink Life
 
The Not So Obvious

If you want your kids to be grateful for their belongings, provide proper storage containers and teach them how to put them away after use. Toys, books and clothing tossed on the floor and stepped on are never appreciated.

boys room ideas for organized closet to store clothes in labeled binsvia i heart organizing
 

Teaching kids to be thankful for even the small things can improve their life. Why? Gratitude is always about someone else. When you teach kids to recognize others and forget themselves, it always helps them be a better person. So, organize your storage, add a tree, or inspirational quotes and let your kids’ room help you teach them gratitude.

painted rock says gratitude

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For more in the KidSpace Holiday Décor Ideas Series:

  1. Last Minute Halloween Décor Ideas
  2. Worry Free, Kid-Friendly Decorations for Any Holiday
  3. Using Décor to Teach Gratitude
  4. Easy Kids’ Room Holiday Décor Ideas
  5. Baby Themed Christmas Trees

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