Show Notes
Practical Ways to Teach Kids Genuine Gratitude Every Day Most parents try to teach gratitude by reminding kids to “say thank you.” But real gratitude isn’t a script. It’s a feeling. And the reason many kids don’t show it has nothing to do with entitlement and everything to do with emotional overwhelm, development, and the ability to receive. In this episode, we’ll uncover why forced “thank yous” backfire, why the holidays make gratitude harder (not easier), and how kids often look ungrateful simply because they don’t yet know how to receive attention or generosity. You’ll learn what genuine appreciation looks like at different ages, how to help kids access it even in overstimulating moments, and the simple daily mantra that turns frustration to appreciation instantly.
What You'll Learn: The surprising reason some kids shrink during gift-giving How to rescue gratitude from holiday chaos Small, everyday ways to grow appreciation without reminders or pressure The 2-minute practice that rewires your home If you want kids who feel thankful, not just perform it, this conversation will change the way you think about gratitude. If this episode helps you find clarity, don’t forget to follow the show for more weekly guidance on parenting, connection, and calm discipline. Your next breakthrough might just be one episode away.
Resources: Ask Sue a question at https://www.askmomparenting.com/ask-question/ Join the Yell-free Parenting Facebook Group Read Sue's book, Secrets to Parenting Without Giving a F^ck Connect with Sue on Instagram at @AskMomParenting Watch Ask Mom Parenting on YouTube
More from Ask Mom Parenting with Sue Donnellan
Why do adult children cut off contact with their parents, and how can parents rebuild communication before or after estrangement happens?
What surprising emotional sign indicates an immediate suicide risk in teenagers? In this episode, we're diving into the new and groundbreaking Harvard-led research that changes how parents should watch for adolescent suicide risk signs. I explain why sudden agitation, restless energy, and intense outbursts (rather than just quiet sadness) can be a critical short-term warning signal during a mental health crisis. I'm breaking down how to spot these out-of-character behavioral spikes so you can step in safely and effectively. If you’ve ever asked yourself: Why is my usually calm teenager suddenly exploding over tiny, minor inconveniences?
How do I get my teenager to talk to me without pushing them away? In this episode, I unravel the real reasons behind teen distance, from biological brain shifts to the way we react as parents. I share practical ways to reconnect, including ditching the dramatic sit-downs, choosing more casual settings, and prioritizing truth over immediate correction. We’ll look at how small shifts in communication can help rebuild genuine trust with your adolescent. And I’ll leave you with one challenge: create just one moment this week with your teen where you bring zero agenda. If you’ve ever asked yourself: Why does my teenager shut down or pull away every time I try to talk to them?
Can I repair my relationship with my child after losing my temper and yelling? If you’ve ever lost your temper, yelled at your kids, and immediately wondered, Did I just damage my relationship with my child? this episode is for you. I’m breaking down what to do after you yell at your child, how to apologize without over-explaining or making excuses, and why the way you handle the moments after you lose your cool can make a meaningful difference. We’ll also talk about parenting guilt, what real parent-child repair looks like, and how to take responsibility for your behavior without getting stuck in shame or defensiveness. If you’ve ever asked yourself: How do I apologize to my child even though they were pushing every one of my buttons?
Is your kid good with money, or just good at getting money from you? In this episode, we dive into the right way to give kids money and the crucial lessons about value that most kids never learn. From turning back rubs into earning opportunities, to the ever-changing going rate for picking up dog poop, to using Whole Foods cookies to teach spontaneity and generosity, I’m sharing practical ways to help kids understand how money actually works so they can become more financially capable along the way. If you’ve ever asked yourself: How do I stop handing out money just because it’s Friday? What’s the difference between routine family expectations and value-added earning? How can I teach my kids about spending choices and investing before they hit their 20s? …this one’s for you.