Kids & Family

Exercise

Family Gratitude Circle

Time: 10 minutes or more (in a repeating cadence)

Things you will need: 

  1. Set a Time and Space: Choose one evening per week (or whatever cadence works for you) to gather as a family without distractions. It could be around the dinner table or in the living room after dinner. Create a warm atmosphere – consider lighting a candle, dimming the lights, or simply inviting everyone to sit in a comfortable circle.
  2. Open with Presence: Begin with a moment of shared silence or a few deep breaths together. If your family has a spiritual tradition, begin with a short prayer, a poem, or an intention for the circle.
  3. Share Gratitude and Wonder: Take turns around the circle, giving each person, including young children, a chance to speak while others listen attentively. Each person can share one thing they are grateful for this week. Encourage including “wonder moments” too, such as “seeing the stars.”
  4. Include All Ages: Adapt the sharing to make it accessible for every age. Little ones might hold up a drawing of something they love, or a teenager might pass if they’re not ready to speak – that’s okay. There is no wrong answer. Speak from the heart. What matters is that each feels heard and respected when they do share.
  5. Close with Connection: After everyone has had a turn, close the circle in a unifying way. You might all join hands for a moment of silence or each offer a kind wish or blessing.