A Gratitude Game

Years ago, ads for a toy-store chain featured an animated kangaroo jumping on a frown to turn it upside down.  That reminds me of family life, which can feel like a nonstop attempt to keep everyone happy. Busy schedules, grumpy kids, and tired parents can be a bad combination.

  When our family needs to turn frowns upside down, we play the thankful game.  The rules are simple:  we take turns sharing one thing we’re thankful for.  Everyone plays.  No one can pass.  No repeats are allowed.  Our kids, now teens, still chime in.

  As we share gratitude for football, Grandma, hugs, warm brownies, coffee, and more, kids tend to stop bickering, and adults get a mental reset.  Try playing — and bring on lots of smiles!

—Janna Firestone, ChurchArt