Over 200 years ago, after much thought and prayer, fully knowing their lives would be at risk, the great men of our country issued a declaration of independence. The result was the opportunity for us to enjoy freedoms that have allowed our country to prosper as no other country before it. We have so much to be grateful for.
How often should you talk to your children about what you’re thankful for? Maybe you say a prayer every night and thank God for each other, your warm beds, and your dog or fish. Kids need to see parents expressing thanks, too, and our Declaration of Gratefulness is a fun way to make saying “thanks” a formal affair.
You can use this printable on Thanksgiving year after year. Wouldn’t it be sweet see how your list of reasons to be thankful grows, tracking it year after year? Or print the page on Independence Day and focus on why you’re grateful for your freedom, safe home, and personal rights. As your children get older, they’ll be able to understand more profoundly how blessed we are to have what we do.
So gather your family to discuss and list the freedoms, people, and opportunities for which your family is grateful. Use the Declaration of Gratefulness to form your list. Print multiple copies if you’re celebrating with other families, and take turns reading your declarations to each other.
When you’ve finished reading your family declaration, consider praying for our country, its leaders, and its future. Post your Declaration of Gratitude somewhere in your home where it can be added to any time you, your husband, or your kids realize another reason to be grateful.
Find other Thanksgiving activities, like our Thankful Tree, here. Or, if you use this printable on Independence Day, pair it with our Independence Day Trivia or Founding Fathers Cards.
