by: Amy Lee

Thanksgiving is that time of the year when you gather with your loved ones and give thanks for everything and everyone we have in our lives. With the help of a gratitude tree, it’s easier for little ones to stop and think about what they are thankful for.

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Materials required:

  • A thick sheet of paper
  • some string
  • some tree branches
  • vase
  • hole punch
  • pens or markers

Process:

1. Draw a leaf on the sheet of paper and cut it out.

2. Use the leaf cutout to trace more leaves on the sheet of paper and cut them out.

3. Punch holes in the leaves and let your little one put a string through the leafs. Tie the string into a knot.

4. Get your little helper to put some rocks and pebbles in the vase to add some weight so it’s more sturdy. This step is optional but if you have toddlers who might knock the tree over, I would recommend it.

5. Arrange the tree branches in the vase so that it stands straight.

6. Ask your kids to think about the people and things they are thankful for, and write it on the leaves for them. You could also involve them by asking them to draw something they’re grateful for on the leaf. My daughter’s drawing is a squiggle and I have no idea what it is.

7. Hang the leaves on the tree.

Voila, this project is simple and teaches an important life lesson.

Even though my 3 year old daughter is still little, I try to instill gratitude into her life as much as I can. Every night before we go to bed, we talk about a favourite event that happened that day and something we are thankful for. I believe teaching my children to be grateful will help them appreciate what they have and help them to be happier people.

Tips:

1. You can use double printed paper in various colors and patterns. Try using a few different patterns for a more interesting tree.

2. You can also use different colored strings or pretty ribbons to hang the leaves from the branches.

3. Do not use paper that is too thin. Thin paper will let the marker ink seep through it, ruining the leaves. If you have young children, a thicker paper will be more durable.

4. If you have small children, you can opt for a plastic vase instead of glass.

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About the Author: Amy Lee is the blogger who loves eating chocolate, drinking tea, and making kale chips. She also loves taking pictures of her children and creating photo albums to reminisce their childhood.  You can find Amy Google+.