Parenting would be a breeze if kids naturally said thank you for every sandwich, lifted a pinky to help clean, and wrote spontaneous haikus about your sock-folding skills.
Alas, gratitude is more often something they need to see, hear, and practice—ideally without the eye rolls.
The good news? There are some incredible books out there that sprinkle a little thankfulness magic into your nighttime routine, and they work just as well for parents as for kids.
Here are five reads you can add to the pile to help your family grow a habit of genuine, heartfelt gratitude.
1. The Thank You Book by Mo Willems
Mo Willems is to picture books what Mary Poppins is to nannies: practically perfect in every way.
In The Thank You Book, Elephant and Piggie go on a thankathon, trying to remember everyone who deserves their gratitude. It’s simple, it’s silly, and it’s a masterclass in making thankfulness feel fun instead of preachy.
Many parents find this book is a sneaky way to get kids talking about who they’re thankful for (“Yes darling, the dog does count, even if he did eat your crayons”).
Bonus: research suggests that repeated exposure to gratitude in stories can help children internalize grateful behaviours (source).
Extra points if you and your child make your own “Thank You Book” after reading.
A few stick figures, a glue stick, and the promise of biscuits are all you need. Even if you only make it through three pages before bedtime chaos descends, you’re still winning.
2. Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña
