Whether it’s difficulty during the holiday season or just a time when children and their caregivers might be going through a period of stress or crisis, it can be a challenge to look at things in a positive manner.

In a recent article, PBS Kids for Parents discusses how families can find things to be grateful for even during difficult times.

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In the article, child development and behavior specialist Betsy Brown Braun, who is also the author of “Just Tell Me What to Say,” said that gratitude is a life skill that is learned. She notes that it is important for caregivers to help cultivate gratitude in children, especially when times are difficult.

There are a number of reasons why it might be challenging to feel grateful, such as job losses, health problems, relationship struggles, or other issues. 

Braun suggests adopting one of the following tips as a first step to combat the challenges in the attempt to cultivate gratitude in children.

Acknowledge the stress – Rather than deny or ignore issues, discuss the highs and lows of life with children. Let them know that life is rarely a perfectly straight line, but that while it is important to acknowledge the valleys, try to spend more time looking at life from the peaks.

Focus on what you have – Be deliberate in a daily focus on the good, regardless of whether you are in a peak or valley. Make a list of what you have, including the smallest things, and also share the abstract – such as love among family, the joy of taking part in an enjoyable activity, or friendship.

Help others – Everyone struggles at some point. While some may feel as though their family is the only one suffering, serving others in need can help to shift that perspective.

Turn the simple into the special – Parents underestimate the simple joys of childhood and how everyday things can be special to a child. Adopt a childlike attitude and turn simple things into special events. Braun notes that while children may forget gifts, they are unlikely to forget experiences, so treat fun family experiences as special gifts.

Fake it – For caregivers, struggles can challenge the ability to feel gratitude – but they have to practice it even if it feels forced. Words might eventually go from feeling fake to meaningful if something is said long enough to convince oneself of it.

Look to the world – Those struggling with thankfulness should focus on their position and life circumstances in contrast to other parts of the world, which can help to shift their perspective. Take part in outreach to other parts of the world and get children involved. This helps to consider and appreciate what they have, compared to suffering children elsewhere.

To read the entire article, visit PBS Kids for Parents’ website.