What does it mean to be thankful? Are you thankful for the amazing things and people in your life? This is the time of year when we take time to remember what we are thankful for. We often think of others and what the less fortunate may be missing. As parents and educators, we want to instill being a thankful person and showing others that we have gratitude in our hearts at a very young age. If we start early on, this life long skill becomes a part of everything we do!
At Creative Years we often focus on what it means to be thankful. Our curriculum covers good pillars of character and we discuss doing random acts of kindness for people. During circle time, we read stories to the children that incorporate having gratitude, good manners and respect for others. Modeling gratitude is very powerful for children. We praise children when they do something great and we prompt children to say thank you when someone does something nice. Learning to be a respectful person is a great way to show others that we are thankful for them.
We all want to do more to help our community that we are thankful to live in. One of Creative Years favorite ways to incorporate gratitude is to host an annual food drive at our school. The children and families are asked to donate non-perishable food items during a two-week period. The children are a part of the process every step of the way! It can be hard for a three-year-old to give up their favorite box of Mac and Cheese or a can of their favorite fruit but learning to give is amazing! Giving teaches the children to appreciate what they have and to help other people who may not be as fortunate. The foods that we collect are donated to a local charity, Help The Children. The charity is always thankful for the large quantity of food items that our families collect for them. We take pride that our children and families are willing and able to help others.
There is no better way to touch a child’s heart then showing them that they are loved and cared for. Take time this Thanksgiving to not only reflect on all the wonderful things and people you have in your life, but also think about how you can show others that you are a thankful person. Think of ways you and your family can lend a helping hand. If toddlers and preschoolers can do it, so can you!
Creative Years Infant Center and Preschool has been serving families in SCV for over 35 years. Call to schedule a tour at 661-254-0718 or visit our web site for a virtual tour and more information www.creativeyears.com. You can also find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/creativeyears.