How Children Learn Gratitude Through Celebrations Like Mother’s Day 

Gratitude is more than good manners — it’s a life disposition that begins early. At Journey Early Learning, we see just how powerful simple moments of appreciation can be. Celebrations like Mother’s Day offer a beautiful opportunity to nurture this essential value in young children, shaping their emotional and social development for years to come. 

Why Gratitude Matters in Early Childhood 

Developing positive dispositions such as appreciation and gratitude supports helps children build stronger relationships, feel more positive emotions, and develop empathy — as they grow in their social and emotional wellbeing .  
According to researchers like Dr. Robert Emmons, a leading expert on gratitude, developing emotional awareness by practicing skills such as thankfulness is linked to increased happiness, resilience, and even better sleep. 

But how do we teach gratitude to toddlers and preschoolers who are still developing a sense of self and time? 

Here at Journey early learning we support children to develop these skills through engagement in rituals and celebrations 

Mother’s Day as a Teachable Moment 

Celebrations like Mother’s Day provide real-life opportunities to model and practise gratitude in ways children can understand. It’s not about grand gestures. It’s about helping children notice, name, and share appreciation. 

At Journey, we help children recognise and express appreciation by reflecting on: 

• Connection: Who makes you feel safe, loved, and understood? 

• Consideration: What are some thoughtful or caring things your mum or mother figure does for you? 

• Communication: How can you show your love and kindness in return — with words, gestures, or actions? 

These simple questions encourage children to notice the special people in their lives, name the ways they feel supported, and share their gratitude with heart. 

How Children Express Gratitude by Age 

Gratitude looks different at every stage: 

• Babies (0–2): Show joy and affection through smiles, cuddles, and mimicking caring gestures. 

• Toddlers (2–3): Begin to notice others’ actions and respond with “thank you” when prompted. 

• Preschoolers (4–6): Start to understand that others do things for them — and can express genuine thanks. 
  
  

Developmentally, this is when consistent modelling and routine make a big difference. 

Five Ways to Practise Gratitude at Home This Mother’s Day 

Looking for ways to nurture thankfulness in everyday life? Try these age-appropriate activities at home:

Make a Gratitude Card Together

Help your child draw or decorate a simple card. Ask, “What’s something Mummy does that makes you happy?” Write their words down and let them decorate with stickers, stamps, or drawings.

Start a Gratitude Jar

Place a jar and slips of paper in a shared space. Each day, write down something your child is thankful for. Read them together at the end of the week or on Mother’s Day.

Use the Language of Appreciation

Model phrases like: 

“That was so kind of you!” 

“I’m thankful you helped me pick up the toys.” 

“Let’s say thank you to Mummy for making our lunch.”

Tell Stories About Being Kind

Read books or tell stories where characters show love, kindness or help someone. Great titles include: 

“The Thank You Book” by Mo Willems 

“Bear Says Thanks” by Karma Wilson 

“Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are?” by Dr. Seuss 

Reflect Together at Bedtime

End the day by asking: “What was your favourite part of today?”  or “Who made you feel happy?” These gentle prompts encourage reflection and appreciation in a calm, connected way. 

Gratitude in Practice at Journey 

Across our centres, we celebrate Mother’s Day with activities that help children express love in ways that are meaningful and developmentally appropriate. From sensory crafts to group discussions and songs, we support children in understanding the joy of giving and appreciating others. 

It’s never too early to build emotional awareness — and days like these help us lay the foundations for empathy, confidence, and positive relationships.

Gratitude practices into everyday routines  

By weaving simple gratitude practices into everyday routines and family celebrations, we’re helping raise children who feel connected, cared for, and capable of expressing their feelings. And that’s something truly worth celebrating — not just on Mother’s Day, but every day. 

Sources: 

• Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being. 

• Harvard Health Publishing: Giving thanks can make you happier 

• Raising Children Network (Australia): Developing gratitude