As any parent knows, it’s an intentional act to foster the right attitudes and character traits in our children.  As we approach the celebration of Thanksgiving, encouraging a grateful spirit in my children has been a highlight the last week.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the resource A Child’s Book of Character Building which takes various traits such as honesty, diligence, or patience and with simple stories explains the importance from a biblical standpoint.  The easy-to-remember definitions are appreciated as well :: for example, thankfulness is defined as ‘being grateful and saying so’.  This book is one we’ll use again in future years.

We’ve also found some great Thanksgiving books to read!  A few of our favorites right now:

Give Thanks to the Lord

Thank You for Thanksgiving :: the fun rhyming text is great, also a wonderful way to tie together the holiday with the approach of Advent as the book emphasizes being grateful for the gift of Christ.

An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving :: great family read-aloud or for older children

The Thanksgiving Bowl :: fun for preschoolers as well~Our almost 4-yr old and 1st grader loved this one!

Mary’s First Thanksgiving

The Legend of Squanto :: a Focus on the Family radio theatre CD that is excellent!  A story of triumph over tragedy that offers more of the Thanksgiving story.  This is our second year listening to this audio and it will probably be a tradition.

Hope you’re anticipating the week as we pause to give thanks!

photos :: some of the children’s crafting for the season