Gratitude Challenges for Families: Fun Ideas for Kids of All Ages

In a world full of distractions, it's easy for families to lose sight of the little things that make life sweet. That’s where practicing gratitude comes in! Our Saranoni family has kids of all ages–from toddlers to teens, so we’re always looking for ways that the whole family can practice gratitude–regardless of their stage. Here are some fun and easy gratitude challenges your family can try, no matter the age of your family!

1. Gratitude Jar Challenge

A gratitude jar is a simple but powerful way to get the entire family involved in daily reflections.

• How It Works: Place an empty jar in a common area, like the kitchen or living room, along with a stack of paper and pens. Each day, everyone writes down one thing they are grateful for and adds it to the jar.

• Why It's Great for All Ages: Younger kids can draw pictures instead of writing, while older kids can practice more reflective gratitude. At the end of the month, gather around and read all the entries aloud. It's a beautiful way to end the day, wrapped in your favorite Saranoni blanket, and reflect on the simple joys.

2. The ABCs of Gratitude

This challenge is perfect for getting creative and thinking outside the box!

• How It Works: Go through the alphabet and take turns saying something you're grateful for that starts with each letter. For example, "A" could be for "apples," "B" for "blankets" (like your soft Saranoni throw), and so on.

• Why It's Great for All Ages: Little ones love the challenge of finding words, and it’s a fun way for older kids to think more deeply about their blessings. You can do this over dinner or during family time, and it never gets old!

3. Gratitude Walks

Take your gratitude outdoors with a family walk focused on appreciation.

• How It Works: As you walk, take turns pointing out things you’re grateful for in nature. It could be the changing leaves, the warmth of the sun, or even the fresh air. This challenge works well in autumn when the beauty of the season is all around.

• Why It's Great for All Ages: It encourages mindfulness and helps even the youngest kids focus on the present moment. Plus, after a brisk walk, everyone will be excited to cozy up under their Saranoni blankets and continue the gratitude discussion.

4. Gratitude Tree

This is a fun, hands-on project that visually shows all the things your family is thankful for.

• How It Works: Create a "gratitude tree" by either drawing a large tree on paper or using real branches arranged in a vase. Then, cut out paper leaves and let everyone write something they're thankful for on each leaf. Attach the leaves to the tree as it grows with gratitude over time.

• Why It's Great for All Ages: Kids of all ages can participate in this craft, and younger kids will especially love decorating the tree with colorful leaves. As Thanksgiving approaches, you’ll have a beautiful reminder of all the good things in your lives.

• ance of expressing appreciation in a tangible way.

5. Gratitude Bingo

Turn gratitude into a game the whole family will love!

• How It Works: Create a bingo card with each square listing something related to gratitude (e.g., "Thank someone in your family," "Share something you're grateful for from today"). As your family completes each task, mark off the squares. The first to get five in a row wins!

• Why It's Great for All Ages: Bingo is simple enough for young kids and engaging for older ones. The game aspect adds a fun layer to practicing gratitude, and you can offer small prizes like a movie night or extra dessert as a reward.

6. Gratitude Photo Challenge

This one is especially fun for families who love to document memories.

• How It Works: Each day, take a photo of something you’re grateful for. At the end of the week or month, gather as a family to share and discuss your pictures.

• Why It's Great for All Ages: Even toddlers can point out things they’re thankful for while older kids can use their phones to snap photos. It’s a creative way to combine technology and mindfulness while focusing on the beauty of everyday moments.

7. Gratitude Around the Dinner Table

Mealtime is the perfect opportunity for a quick gratitude challenge.

• How It Works: Before eating, go around the table and have everyone share one thing they’re grateful for that day. It’s a simple habit that makes gratitude a natural part of your family’s routine.

• Why It's Great for All Ages: It’s a quick and easy way to practice gratitude with kids of all ages. Plus, it sets a positive tone for the rest of the evening!

Wrapping it UP: Make Gratitude a Family Tradition

Practicing gratitude as a family creates strong connections, promotes kindness, and helps everyone focus on the positive. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table, taking a walk, or snuggling up with a Saranoni blanket, there are endless ways to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness in your home. Which gratitude challenge will your family try first?