Thanksgiving is rolling around, and sure, there’s the food (pass the mashed potatoes!), but it’s also a time to teach little ones about the true spirit of the holiday. At Nanat Baby, we believe in raising tiny humans who know that being awesome isn’t just about looking cute – it’s about doing good, too. But here’s the thing: gratitude shouldn’t just be a one-day deal. Sure, Thanksgiving is a special day for giving thanks, but real gratitude is an everyday practice – a mindset, not a moment.
Here’s our no-nonsense, fun guide to showing kids how to sprinkle kindness like confetti!
1. Make Thankfulness a Daily Habit (Not a Duty)
We’re not about robotic, “because I have to” thank-yous. Think fun and meaningful instead! Start a family tradition of daily “Thank You Shout-Outs,” whether it’s thanking the sun for a warm day or Pima Cotton blankets for those cozy snuggles. Kids love the chance to get creative, and soon they’ll see there’s so much to appreciate – even beyond dessert (Hello Pumpkin Pie)!
2. Give the World a High-Five
Our earth gives us a lot, and it deserves a little high-five back! Take the kids on a trash-pickup adventure, make a game of finding recyclables, or create a “nature jar” with cool rocks or leaves they find. It’s a playful way to remind them that taking care of our world is part of the Thanksgiving spirit. Plus, this teaches them early that even small acts help make the world a better place.
3. Level Up Kindness with a “Good Deed Challenge”
Who doesn’t love a game? Kids love competition, so make doing good deeds a family challenge! Small acts, like helping siblings or writing thank-you notes to teachers, count as points. Each completed “good deed” earns a sticker on a kindness board or a token in a family jar. It’s about seeing kindness grow in a way they can be proud of – without the big speeches.
4. Sharing is Daring (and Super Fun)
Let’s turn giving into a mission! Kids can go through toys or books they’ve outgrown and, instead of just “giving them away,” frame it as a superhero mission where they’re finding “sidekicks” for their beloved toys. Taking them to a local charity or shelter adds a real impact. This playful approach makes sharing an adventure and lets them be the heroes in their own way.
5. Get Quirky with Gratitude – Start a “Weird Thanks” Tradition
“Thanks for...the one sock that never gets lost?” “Thanks for...a baby blanket softer than the rest?” Thanksgiving is the perfect time to get goofy with gratitude. Let the kids get creative with what they’re thankful for, and start a new family tradition of “Weird Thanks.” It’s guaranteed laughs and teaches them to appreciate life’s little quirks.
Because Thanksgiving should be about more than turkey and pie. With a few clever twists, you can help kids appreciate what they have, get excited about sharing, and maybe even become the little change-makers the world needs. At Nanat Baby, we’re all about raising kids who give, grow, and glow.
We give thanks, we give love and we give back. Don’t forget that every time you shop with us, part of the benefit goes to organizations we support.
Operation Smile Peru, where our blankets are made, and Every Child Fund in Boston, close to our home.
Happy Thanksgiving – and here’s to raising grateful, grounded little rockstars!
xo,
Melanie