I want my son to appreciate what he has, not just the big things like birthdays or trips to the park, but the simple stuff too, like a sunny day, his favorite meal, or just hanging out together. Every night, I ask him, “What made you happy today?” At first, he’d shrug and say “nothing” or give me some random answer like “ice cream.” But over time, he’s started noticing more, like when his favorite song plays or when we read his favorite book. I also try to set an example by saying “thank you” out loud when someone helps me, but honestly, I don’t know if this is working. I just want gratitude to be a natural part of his life, not a forced lesson. Sometimes it feels like I’m climbing a never-ending hill. Does anyone else feel this way?
Oh man, I could’ve written this myself. My 6yo is exactly like that. It felt like every time I tried to talk about gratitude, it went in one ear and out the other. But then one day, he randomly said, “I’m glad we went to the park today,” and I almost cried. It’s slow progress, but you’re planting seeds. Keep doing what you’re doing, sounds like you’re on the right track!
You’re doing such a great job, Michelle. Gratitude is one of those lessons that doesn’t show results overnight, but it’s worth it. My older kid is 10 now, and while they were totally oblivious at 5, now they’re the one reminding me to say thank you sometimes. Keep modeling it, and they’ll pick it up eventually. It just takes time
Lol, I tried asking my kid the same thing, and one night he said, “Nothing made me happy except you NOT making broccoli for dinner.” Like, thanks, buddy. 
I just keep trying because I figure one day he’ll look back and remember these talks, even if he rolls his eyes at me now. Parenting is a marathon, not a sprint, right?
One thing that worked for us is starting a “gratitude jar.” Every evening, my kid and I write down one thing we’re grateful for, fold it up, and drop it in the jar. At the end of the month, we read them together. At first, his notes were things like “candy” or “no homework,” but over time, they got deeper. It helped him focus on the good things and made it feel fun instead of a chore. Maybe that could work for you too?
My little one doesn’t even pretend to care about the small stuff. It’s frustrating because you’re pouring so much energy into helping them see the beauty in life, and it feels like they’re just not getting it. You’re not alone, it’s hard, but I think it’ll pay off eventually.