It’s more than saying, thank you. To be really appreciative, a child must understand more than just the dollar value of something. He must also appreciate the intangible value of one’s home, an education or a parent’s trust.

Kids who understand the value of what others do for them don’t say thank you just because they’ve been told to a thousand times. They say it because they feel thankful.

To foster appreciation:

• Model it yourself. Express how a thoughtful act or gift makes you feel.
• Talk with your child about what your family values and what it doesn’t.
• Don’t fulfill your child’s every request. Having to wait will build your child’s appreciation.

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