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Creating a "Gratitude Puzzle"
has lots of benefits!
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They are simple and easy to make.
All you need is some paper (colorful is fun but not necessary), something to write with, and some scissors.
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In the example I'm sharing here, I used construction paper and cut out a heart shape. You can use any shape.
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I wrote a note on the front and drew a few lines on the back.
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Then I cut along those lines on the back, making a puzzle out of the heart.
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This is a great way to keep your child busy for a few moments...
You can make this for your child to put together ... or if your child is old enough, they can make some!
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Another option is to make them and then mail them to family and friends.
Have your kids write/draw those notes for each person/family.
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Offer your
child a variety of colored paper, shapes, writing utensils, and stickers to use for each puzzle.Â
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You could even do the letter writing/drawing as one activity and the cutting and envelope addressing as another activity, later on.
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You can teach a gratitude lesson while doing something fun.
Talk with your child about what they like about each person they are writing the note to.  What are things about that person that make them smile?Â
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We can be thankful for that person and the things they do that make us smile.Â
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We can try to be like them so others can be grateful for us, too.
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You can spread joy and cheer.
Once cut, put those pieces of the puzzle into an envelope and mail it to someone special.
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Hopefully, the recipient will call or write back and let your child know how grateful they were to receive such a
special note.
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If you would like to see this 'in action' check out the video on my
Helping Parents Parent Facebook page. This is
an
old video- from my 2020-2021 series on "How to Stay Sane in Uncertain Times" but it's still good advice!Â