Gratitude Games: 8 Fun Ways to Practice Thankfulness with Kids
Gratitude is like a little spark of magic—it helps kids see the bright side of everyday moments and makes their hearts feel extra warm. But let’s face it, just saying “thank you” can feel a bit abstract for young kids. Why not turn thankfulness into something they can touch, feel, and giggle over? Here are some playful gratitude games that will make thankfulness come alive, turning it into a fun, giggly part of your family’s everyday adventures.
1. Gratitude Hot Potato
Gratitude Hot Potato takes the classic game and adds a thankful twist, perfect for getting everyone in a circle and giggling. Grab a small plush toy, a ball, or even a soft pumpkin decoration as the “hot potato.” Start the music and pass it around the circle. When the music stops, whoever’s holding the “potato” has to share something they’re thankful for—maybe it’s their favorite stuffed animal, a sibling who always plays with them, or the yummy pie waiting in the kitchen! This game keeps everyone moving, laughing, and thinking about the things that make them happy.
Why it Works: This game encourages quick thinking and helps kids practice expressing their gratitude in a fun, pressure-free environment. Plus, it keeps everyone giggling and moving!
2. Thankful Tower
Grab a set of building blocks (like Jenga or any stackable blocks) and gather the family for a Thankful Tower challenge! Each person takes turns adding a block to the tower, but before placing their block, they share one thing they’re grateful for. As the tower gets taller, so does the list of all the wonderful things in our lives. If the tower falls, no worries—celebrate the fun effort and start again. It’s all about building, both in blocks and in gratitude!
Why it Works: This game helps kids visually connect the idea of building something strong with expressing gratitude. It’s a great reminder that every little thing we’re thankful for helps build up something bigger—just like the tower.
3. Gratitude Spin the Bottle
Gratitude Spin the Bottle is all about spreading love and appreciation. Sit in a circle with a bottle in the middle, then take turns spinning it. Whoever it points to gets a heartfelt reason why someone in the circle is thankful for them. Maybe, “I’m thankful for you because you give the best hugs” or “I love how you always share your toys.” Kids light up when they hear positive things about themselves, and this game is a great way to foster kindness and build each other up.
Why it Works: Kids often love hearing positive things about themselves, and this game encourages kindness and helps build each child’s self-esteem. It’s also a wonderful way to help siblings or friends express appreciation for each other.
4. Thankfulness Charades
Make gratitude into a game with Thankfulness Charades! Write down different things to be thankful for on slips of paper—like family, sunshine, pets, or a favorite activity. Let each child pick a slip and act it out while everyone else guesses. Imagine acting out “grandma’s cookies” or “snuggling in a cozy blanket”—there will definitely be lots of laughs as everyone tries to guess what’s being acted out!
Why it Works: Acting out what they’re thankful for helps kids think creatively about the things they appreciate. It also makes gratitude more concrete, which is perfect for young children who benefit from playful, active learning.
5. Gratitude Garland
Make a Gratitude Garland to add some thankful decor to your home. Give each child paper leaves or strips of paper, and have them write (or draw) something they’re thankful for. Then string all those thankful leaves together to make a garland to hang across the room, over the mantel, or anywhere that needs a little extra warmth. This simple craft helps kids see just how many amazing things there are to be thankful for and turns it into a beautiful reminder of gratitude all season long.
Why it Works: This craft activity helps kids see how many wonderful things there are to be thankful for. It also adds a festive decoration to your home that serves as a visual reminder of gratitude throughout the season.
6. Thankfulness Freeze Dance
Time for a Thankfulness Freeze Dance! Put on some of your favorite tunes and let everyone dance like crazy. When the music stops, everyone has to freeze and shout out something they’re thankful for. The sillier the dance moves, the better—just make sure no one moves until they share their gratitude. It’s a surefire way to get everyone moving, laughing, and reflecting on the good things in their lives.
Why it Works: Kids love dancing, and incorporating moments of thankfulness makes it even more special. This game is perfect for getting everyone moving, laughing, and thinking about what makes them happy.
7. Gratitude Relay Race
Get everyone moving with a Gratitude Relay Race! Set up a simple relay course in your backyard or living room, complete with fun stations. At each station, players must pause and share something they’re thankful for before moving on. Add challenges like hopping on one foot, crawling under a table, or balancing a beanbag on their head for an extra dose of excitement.
Why it Works: This game is perfect for energetic kids who love to be active. It blends physical movement with moments of gratitude, making thankfulness a fast-paced and engaging part of the fun. It encourages quick thinking about what they’re thankful for and keeps everyone entertained!
8. Thankfulness Pictionary
Combine creativity and gratitude with a round of Thankfulness Pictionary. Start by writing down different things to be grateful for—like a warm meal, a sunny day, or a favorite pet—on small slips of paper and placing them in a jar. Players take turns picking a slip and drawing it while everyone else tries to guess what it is. The best part? The drawings don’t have to be perfect; sometimes the goofiest sketches bring out the biggest smiles!
Why it Works: This game lets kids express their gratitude visually, using their imagination in a way that’s both fun and meaningful. Plus, the laughter that comes with trying to guess everyone’s silly drawings is a bonus burst of joy!
These gratitude games are not only perfect for any time of the year to help kids recognize and express their thankfulness. By making gratitude a fun, interactive part of your family’s routine, you’re helping build a lasting appreciation for the little things that make life special.
What are your family’s favorite ways to practice gratitude? Do you have any go-to games or activities that make these moments extra special? Share your ideas in the comments below and let’s inspire each other to keep the thankfulness flowing all year long!
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