Way back when I was Mommy to just one kid I started the practice of gratitude with a Family Thankful Tree (or Gratitude Tree). I need the motivation to stop and be grateful for what I have. Anyone else?
I look forward to this thoughtful, beautiful display each November. I also love seeing everyone’s voice come out in their thankful leaves and the choices of color. It truly makes for the most beautiful, collective creations!
Changing Seasons
Our tree has looked different over the years. We started simple by using a chalkboard and drawing the trunk. Using magnets, we attached the colorful leaves.
I simply ask my kids each year, “What are you thankful for this year?” or “What do you want to thank God for this year?”
When they were too little to write, I’d dictate their exact response. I love staying out of their words and letting their hearts shine exactly as they say it.
Eventually we “upgraded” our trunk base to a felt. You can find felt fabric by the yard at local craft stores like Hobby Lobby . Don’t forget to use your coupon! I purchased 2 yards and then free handed a tree trunk and branches.
It doesn’t have to be perfect but if you feel more comfortable drawing it, you can use a marker or chalk to sketch an outline before snipping. Use your sharpest scissors to cut!
Get the Whole Family Involved!
Our thankful tree is fullest when everyone participates.
We use watercolors to paint them so you can see the words easier through the coloring. I also think it makes for such vibrant, beautiful tie-dye looking leaves.
We typically write first (with sharpies) then color, but you can do the opposite if you wait for the leaves to dry first (then you don’t have to use a sharpie). In my experience I’ve found the kids make enough mistakes writing that we save the coloring for the end.
I’ve included our empty Thankful Leaf Template below. They’re big enough to write and draw in and make for a fun variety.
The true labor of love is always cutting them all out after it’s done, but I promise it’s worth it! Another fun idea is to put pictures, hand prints, or get creative using anything you can put up on your tree!
Have fun with it and don’t forget to snap pictures before taking them down each year!
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
