Cultivating Gratitude in Young Learners
Reflections from Kim Barrett, Kingsley's Director of Early Childhood Education
As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on the many ways we experience and express gratitude. Practicing gratitude has always been an important part of my family life, and I have witnessed its positive impact on my children over the years. Now teenagers, my two “little ones” are highly empathetic and have shown remarkable resilience in the face of challenges. I am especially proud of their positive outlook on life and ability to build meaningful relationships with others.
The Montessori classroom is intentionally designed to support not only academic growth but also social and emotional development, including the practice of gratitude. By emphasizing independence, respect, and community, the Montessori environment fosters a deep sense of appreciation for oneself, for others, and for the world around us.
Gratitude is a practice that can also be nurtured at home. Below are several ways you can support and reinforce these skills with your child.
- Respect and Care for the Environment: Montessori classrooms emphasize respect for materials, the classroom space, and nature—teaching children to care for their belongings, clean up after themselves, and respect others’ spaces. When children care for their environment, they develop a deeper sense of gratitude for their space and belongings and an appreciation for the work that goes into daily tasks.
- At home, encourage your child to take part in activities like setting the table, folding laundry, caring for pets, or watering the plants.
- Grace and Courtesy: Montessori classrooms teach Grace and Courtesy, encouraging empathy, respect, and consideration for others. Children are taught essential social skills such as greeting others, introducing themselves, making requests, thanking someone, and navigating around each other's work spaces. The practice of expressing courteous gratitude, verbally or in written form, can help children understand and cultivate inner feelings of gratitude.
- At home, model polite language and encourage your child to express appreciation for the help they receive.
- Encourage Independence: Montessori education prioritizes giving children the freedom to make choices and work at their own pace. By taking responsibility for their learning and actions, children gain an understanding of how their decisions affect others and are better prepared to build strong social connections. Additionally, independence encourages Montessori students to be highly self-aware. When students notice their own growth, capacity, and unique skills, it sets a foundation for self gratitude and a lifetime of healthy self-esteem.
- At home, provide opportunities for your child to make choices and take on age-appropriate responsibilities, such as cleaning up their toys, choosing their clothes, or helping with household tasks.
Science supports what most of us know intuitively—gratitude is a good thing! It can help build social connections and banish loneliness. It’s linked to lower levels of depression and higher levels of hope and happiness. Gratitude can lower blood pressure, help you sleep better, and much more. In short—a habit of gratitude is one way to support children in reaching the positive life outcomes we all hope for.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to teach and support your children and thrilled to be a part of their learning journeys. Alongside your devoted classroom teachers, I am always available to help you navigate challenges, explore curiosities, and celebrate wins. Thank you for your ongoing partnership.
Wishing you and your family a joyful and restful Thanksgiving break!