A girl sitting on the ground writing in her notebook
If you’re looking for a rewarding way to celebrate Thanksgiving at your foster home this year, consider starting a gratitude journal. Indeed, it’s a proven way to increase happiness and strengthen relationships, which makes it an ideal Thanksgiving ritual.
Benefits
Numerous studies show that cultivating a sense of gratitude can improve your mental health. Indeed, when you reflect on the kindness of others, you feel more motivated to invest in your relationships. It’s an important practice for anyone. It is especially true for foster children who may be spending the holidays away from their families.
How to Start a Gratitude Journal
A gratitude journal can be as simple as you want it to be. You might choose to do it all online or create a paper version. If so, make a book out of scrap paper or buy a blank book at a stationery store. It helps if you’re a good role model who keeps a journal too or expresses gratitude enthusiastically and often. Further, talk to your foster child about what things they’re grateful for and how they show it. If they’re struggling to get started, tell them inspiring stories based on your own life experiences or play a game giving each other prompts and asking them to complete the sentence.
While Thanksgiving is an excellent time to start a journal, you can also take the first step anytime. The important thing is to recognize the blessings in your life and let others know what a positive difference they make in the world. Let your gratitude journal be one of the many caring gestures you share with your foster child.
Learn More About a Gratitude Journal
TFI Family Connections provides foster care services and care for children and families in Oklahoma. Contact us today to learn more about becoming a foster parent and other ways to help kids looking for a home.