Thankful Hearts: Easy Gratitude Activities for Babies and Toddlers
Thanksgiving is a great time to introduce the concept of gratitude to young children. Even babies and toddlers can start learning about appreciation in small ways. Simple, loving activities help build their early social-emotional skills and create special family moments. Here are some easy, age-appropriate gratitude activities for babies and toddlers.
Thankful Basket
Create a “thankful basket” where your child can add items that they enjoy or love. For babies and young toddlers, you can place soft toys, small objects, or photos of loved ones in the basket. Show these items to them one by one, saying things like, “Look, this is your favorite teddy bear! We’re thankful for it because it makes us happy.” This activity introduces the idea of “thankfulness” and lets babies and toddlers see that their world is full of things that bring joy and comfort.
Gratitude Cuddle
Try a “gratitude cuddle” where you and your child have a gentle moment together, practicing saying “thank you” to each other. Hold them close, say “thank you” for something specific, like their smile or cuddles, and encourage them to repeat “thank you” in their own way. Expressing gratitude out loud is a simple way to introduce language around appreciation. Plus, cuddling strengthens their bond with you and helps them feel loved and safe.
Gratitude Walk
Take a “gratitude walk” around your home or outside, pointing out simple things to be thankful for. Say things like, “Look at the pretty flowers! Aren’t we lucky to see them?” or “Isn’t this a cozy blanket? We’re grateful for things that keep us warm.” Noticing and naming things encourages awareness. It also helps babies and toddlers learn that there’s so much around them to feel thankful for, even in everyday moments. If you’re taking a walk around your neighborhood, grab a few leaves or fun items for your toddler along the way for some fun Fall leaf activities!
Thankful Songs and Rhymes
Sing a little “thank you” song with your child. Make it fun and silly—babies and toddlers love tunes that are catchy and upbeat. Try a simple rhyme like, “Thank you, thank you, for everything I see, the trees, the birds, and even me!” Songs are a fantastic way for young children to learn language, and adding “thank you” to the lyrics reinforces a positive habit of gratitude.
Picture Gratitude Book
Make a small picture book with photos of family members, friends, or favorite toys. Go through the book with your child and say, “We’re so grateful for Grandma!” or “We’re thankful for our friends!” Pointing out loved ones and familiar objects builds early social connections and teaches babies and toddlers that appreciation isn’t just for things but for people, too.
Why Gratitude Matters for Babies and Toddlers
Activities for babies and toddlers that focus on gratitude help them begin to understand appreciation as they grow. These simple moments of thankfulness encourage early social-emotional development, teaching them kindness and appreciation in ways they can understand. Each of these activities also strengthens the bond between you and your child, creating a foundation for a grateful heart in the years to come.
Take a few moments each day to try one of these simple gratitude activities for babies and toddlers. They’ll not only learn early gratitude, but you’ll also create memories together that last a lifetime.
