We have a children’s book at home that describes what Thanksgiving should mean to kids. It talks about going to the market to buy fresh ingredients, combining those ingredients as you cook a big meal and then, finally, eating a delicious dinner with your family and being thankful for being able to do so.

When my kids were babies, this explanation was sufficient. Now that my son is 8 and my twins are nearly 6 (sigh!), it’s time to revisit with them what Thanksgiving is all about. It’s important that this day have special significance to our family and to them as individuals.

The true meaning of Thanksgiving can get lost amidst frantic trips to the grocery store for sweet potatoes, stuffing and other feast fixings. We may spend more of our time worrying about the presentation of the event rather than the significance of it.

In its simplest form, Thanksgiving means giving thanks. And now, more than ever, giving thanks is a necessity. While some people may think the uncertain times we are living in are cause for anger and distrust, the opposite is true. We, as parents, have so much for which to be thankful.

The Big Picture
We live in a magnificent country. How fortunate we are to be able to raise our children in a place that values them for who they are and allows them to become whatever they want to be. This is a place and time where the only limitations come from within each person’s own mind; if you believe you can do it – you will do it.

Help your children believe that, then give thanks to our founding fathers for their vision and resolve. Tell your kids why you smile when you see the American flag, then give thanks to Betsy Ross for her artistry and dedication. Explain to your children that they should believe in heroes, then give thanks to our firefighters, physicians and police officers. Show your kids the beauty of the world around them, then give thanks for life itself.

The Individual Picture
Ask yourself what you are thankful for. There may be many things in your life for which you are grateful, or just one. It can be as big as your house or as small as a child’s hug after a hard day of work. Perhaps you are thankful for your health or the safety of your kids. It could be that you appreciate the way your grandfather’s eyes light up at the sight of your child or the way no one can make pumpkin pie like your grandma. As permanent or as fleeting as it is, cherish it. Hold it close to your heart on Thanksgiving day and always, and help your kids do the same.

What You Can Do to Show Thanks
After defining what Thanksgiving means to your family, it’s not difficult to show kids how to express their gratitude – especially this time of year, when they receive even more gifts than usual. Here are a few ideas to make this Thanksgiving even more meaningful:

• For every new toy they receive, kids can donate a new or gently used toy to charity. Organizations like Toys for Tots are wonderful resources for this.
• For every new item of clothing children receive, they can donate a new or gently used one to kids who don’t have as much. Organizations like the Salvation Army can help distribute items to those who need them.
• Have kids fill a piggy bank full of loose change. When it’s full, they can use half the money to buy something for themselves and the other half can be donated to charitable organizations such as the American Red Cross, the World Wildlife Federation and UNICEF. To make it even easier, locate a Coinstar machine at a local retailer and choose the “donate” option.
• Volunteer at a soup kitchen or donate to your local food pantry. Aside from helping others, this can teach kids the value of a nutritious meal.

Whatever you do on Thanksgiving, and whether you prepare a feast for 20 or for two, find some time to reflect on what you cherish. You may find that defining Thanksgiving and showing thanks makes you realize what’s important in life and establishes the foundation for how your children value this special day the rest of their lives.

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