Materials Needed

• A clear jar or container Glass or plastic. A wide opening makes it easier for younger children to drop notes inside.
• Art supplies for decorating Stickers, ribbons, markers, paint, magazine cutouts, washi tape, or any other craft materials the child enjoys.
• Gratitude slips Small strips of paper for writing on. You can use blank strips or pre-printed prompt slips with sentence starters.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Decorate the jar Let each child personalize their jar using the art supplies. Encouraging ownership and creativity increases engagement with the ongoing practice.
2. Introduce gratitude statements Explain that a gratitude statement names something a person appreciates or feels thankful for. Model an example such as: I am grateful for my dog because he always greets me at the door.
3. Write the first three notes Have the child write three gratitude statements, one per slip. Children who are not yet writing fluently can dictate while an adult writes. Discuss each statement briefly before folding it and placing it in the jar.
4. Establish a daily routine Plan a specific time each day, such as after dinner or before bed, for the child to add one to three new gratitude slips. A consistent routine helps the practice become automatic.
5. Review the jar periodically Once a week, or whenever the child needs a boost, pull out a handful of slips and read them together. This reinforces positive memories and shows how much good accumulates over time.

Sample Gratitude Prompts for Kids

• Today was special because... Encourages the child to identify a standout moment from the day.
• I appreciate (person) because... Builds awareness of the people who contribute to the child's well-being.
• Something I accomplished today... Connects gratitude with self-efficacy and personal growth.
• Something that made me smile... Helps the child notice small pleasures they might otherwise overlook.
• Something I like about my family... Strengthens family bonds and appreciation for home life.
• Something I am looking forward to... Introduces future-oriented optimism as part of gratitude practice.

Tips for Caregivers and Clinicians

• Participate alongside the child When adults model gratitude practice, children are more likely to take it seriously and stick with it over time.
• Keep it pressure-free Avoid correcting or judging the child's responses. Any authentic expression of thankfulness is valuable, no matter how simple.
• Adapt for different ages Younger children may draw pictures instead of writing. Older children and adolescents may prefer a digital version, such as a notes app or voice memo.