This is a time of year when kids are called upon to give thanks, but many don't truly know how to express gratitude. Thanksgiving is a great time to teach children why it's important to give of themselves and to say thank you, regardless of the time of year. Incorporating new family traditions or extrapolating on those that already exist are great ways to do that. {relatedarticles}You also can use some of the free time they have off from school to teach them how to express their thanks by writing thank-you notes or showing gratitude in other ways. Many families begin the Thanksgiving meal with each participant saying what he or she is thankful for. Why not add one everyday thing, such as a blue sky or nighttime kiss, to the list? It reminds children to be grateful for not just the special things in life, but the little things that bring joy. The list of thanks can be used to help others who may not have the same things to give thanks for.