Why Gratitude is a Superpower for Kids (And How to Teach It!)

Hi friend,

With fall in full swing and Thanksgiving just around the corner, there's no better time to talk about one of the most powerful tools we can give our kids: GRATITUDE.

I like to think of gratitude as a superpower. It helps kids (and adults!) feel happier, be kinder, and notice the little things that make life sweet—like a cozy blanket, a good friend, or a perfectly peeled clementine. 🍊

And the best part? Gratitude can be taught, practiced, and strengthened—just like any skill!

💪 What Gratitude Does for Our Kids

Grateful kids are often:✔️ More positive and optimistic✔️ More likely to share and help others✔️ Better at coping with everyday stress✔️ More connected to their friends and family

At Tumble Shine, we believe in growing strong kids from the inside out, so this month we’re helping our athletes and students explore gratitude in fun, age-appropriate ways!

✨ Easy Ways to Teach Gratitude at Home

You don’t need a fancy workbook or Pinterest-worthy craft station to help your kids grow a thankful heart. Here are a few of my favorite simple strategies:

1. Gratitude Guessing Game

Each night at dinner or bedtime, take turns sharing one thing you’re grateful for—but give clues instead of saying it out loud!Example: “It’s warm, snuggly, and has been with me since I was a baby…” (Answer: their favorite stuffed animal!)

2. Thankful Jar

Grab an empty jar and set it on the kitchen counter with slips of paper nearby. Every day, ask your child to write or draw one thing they’re thankful for and pop it in. Read them together on Thanksgiving (or whenever you need a feel-good moment).

3. "Gratitude Walk" Scavenger Hunt

Go on a short family walk and challenge everyone to point out things they’re thankful for using their senses—something they see, hear, smell, touch, or feel emotionally.

📝 Journal Prompts for Grateful Little Minds

If your child loves to write or draw, try one of these simple journal starters:

• "I felt thankful today when..."

• "Three people I’m really glad are in my life are..."

• "Something small that made me smile today was..."

• "I want to say thank you to..." (let them deliver a note!)

Even preschoolers can draw their answers or dictate them to you!

🎨 Our Tumble Shine Gratitude Wall

Here at the gym, we’re celebrating the month by building our very own Gratitude Wall! After class, each child will get to write down:💛 One person they're thankful for💛 One thing they’re thankful for💛 One opportunity they’re thankful for

It’s been such a joy seeing what our athletes come up with—some responses are sweet, others are silly (shoutout to the kiddo who’s thankful for waffles 😆), but ALL of them are heartfelt.

🧡 From Our Family to Yours...

This season, we’re feeling especially grateful—for the laughter, the growth, the flips, the hugs, and most of all… YOU.

To all the families who bring their energy, trust, and children through our doors each week—thank you. You are the heart of Tumble Shine, and we are so incredibly thankful to be a part of your family’s journey.

Wishing you a November full of gratitude and joy,—A Very Thankful Tumble Shine Mama 💙