How to help child to develop a sense of appreciation at Christmas

Dear Santa

How nice to get a thank you letter.  I really appreciate appreciation!

Love

Percy PostElf

Dear Percy

Did you ever see a picture of a sad Santa?  When we focus on gratitude our brains release serotonin, the ‘feel good’ chemical.  The more we focus on what we appreciate the happier we’ll be. And happiness is contagious. So let’s think about how parents can make magical moments at Christmas.

Even in relationships that are ‘cranky’ right now – try thinking every day of at least four things you appreciate about that person. You get what you focus on!

The great thing about limited finance is that families often start to create what really matters. Instead of the buy-buy-buy mentality, they become more aware of what Christmas is really about – celebrating the mystery of Love.

And it doesn’t need to cost money to enjoy what really counts. In fact, happiness experts say that the happiness from new possessions only lasts a few days or weeks at the most.  It’s meaningful relationship that creates the connection –  that creates the happiness –  that lasts.

Here are some of my favourite ideas for families to make magical moments this festive season:

Make magical moments

    Making Christmas decorations together.

    A Christmas walk (maybe a day walk, scrunching through the snow, or going out in the dark to admire the Christmas lights) if, like me, you’re living in a cool part of the world.

    One of my favourite Christmas activities in our village is the community Carol singing in the Park on Christmas Eve.

What are the no-cost activities that make Christmas special for your family?

Cocoa by candlelight with carols playing? A game of Pictionary?

Choose to make magical moments this Christmas. I’d love Parents to write in and share what happy memories they are creating.

Hello Children Develop an Attitude of Gratitude at Christmas                                                                                                                                            Love

Santa

P.S. Tomorrow I’m going to follow up re Daniel’s Mum and Dad fighting.

P.P.S. Here’s my other letters:

Day 1   What to do with Children’s ‘Great Expectations?

Day 2  Christmas Gifts Without a Huge Expense

Day 3  Dealing with Disappointment

Day 4  Creating Christmas Surprises

Day 5  Three Key Questions Regarding Purchases

Day 6  No Money At Christmas

Day 7 How to Stop Children Expecting Everything 

Day 8 When Sad or Bad Things Happen

Day 9  When Grown Ups Fight

Day 11 Can’t Forgive at Christmas 

Day 12 Christmas – What Really Matters

 

 

 

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