Sometimes I feel like I’m failing at teaching my kids to be grateful for what they have. We’re so lucky in so many ways, but it’s like they don’t see it. Every time they want something new, it feels like the thank you is just a reflex and they’re already on to the next thing. How do you help kids truly value what they have and not always want more?
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Hey Jason, totally get where you’re coming from. My 10 yo is the same way, always asking for the next big thing without really appreciating what he’s already got. One thing that’s helped a bit is doing volunteer work together. We signed up for a weekend food drive and he got to see that not everyone has a stocked pantry. It’s not a perfect fix, but it opened his eyes a bit.
I’ve seen my kids become more grateful over time as they got older and began to understand more about the world. I found that sharing simple stories about our family’s history, or just talking about challenges people face has helped them start to see the bigger picture. They don’t always get it but every once in a while, you’ll see those lightbulb moments. Keep at it!
Jason, I’ve got two older teens, so I’ve been there. What worked for us was the needs vs. wants approach. We started by making them “earn” some of the extras they wanted by doing age appropriate chores or saving part of their allowance. Over time, they realized how much effort it takes to get the things they desire and that really made a difference. Also, we had a rule: one new toy in means one old toy out. They had to pick something to donate whenever they got a new item. It didn’t change them overnight, but it planted the seeds. Hope this helps!
LOL, welcome to the never enough club I remember last Christmas, my kids opened all their gifts in a frenzy, and ten minutes later, they were asking me when we could go to the store to get something else. Thought I’d lose my mind! You’re not alone in this struggle my friend!
Same here… it feels like we’re swimming against the tide sometimes, right? Kids today are so used to having everything at their fingertips. It’s tough to break through that sense of entitlement when they’re surrounded by messages about more, more, more.