Great Read Alouds: Everyday Thankfulness

Taking time to recognize and appreciate the positive aspects of our lives is something we can benefit from every day. The more you look for the good, the easier it is to find. Here are some fantastic books to read with your child to promote the habit of noticing and celebrating life's big and little joys.

Thank You by Jarvis

Whimsical, collage-like illustrations give us a glimpse into a child’s world. He is thankful for many things including dinosaurs, boots that know the way, and even his sister (at certain times). I especially like that he thanks himself for being himself. This book is clever, entertaining and ideal for modeling limitless gratitude.

Finding Grateful written by Dianne White & illustrated by Faith Pray

Follow along​ as a you​n​g girl and her mother embrace the simple joys of their day together. They find plenty to be thankful for right here, right now. Gratitude doesn’t seem possible with skinned knees, but after a few tears the world’s beauty shows itself again. The serene, pastel illustrations contribute to this picture book’s heartwarming appeal.  

Elmo Gives Thanks written by Erin Guendelsberger & illustrated by Ernie Kwiat

The title of this book is misleading. Although Elmo and other beloved Sesame Street characters are featured in the illustrations, the rhyming text is focused solely on things to be thankful for. Pumpkins and colorful leaves suggest it is fall, but the overall message encourages everyday gratitude. Sesame Street also offers a book series for fostering positive character traits that includes Being Thankful with Gabrielle.      

100 Ways to Be Thankful by Lisa Gerry

While this chunky nonfiction book is too long to read aloud in one sitting, it earns its place on this list by offering 100 ideas for practicing gratitude. The forward not only defines thankfulness, but it mentions research on its benefits and explains how gratitude comes easier with practice. The numbered activities include projects, challenges, quizzes and other fun, practical suggestions. As you would expect from National Geographic Kids, the pages are filled with vibrant, engaging photos and graphics. Reading a suggestion or two would be a wonderful way to start or end each day.