Episode 24: A Simple Family Gratitude Practice That Actually Works (And Why We're Bringing It Back in 2026)

As the new year approaches, many families start asking the same questions: What do we want more of? What do we want less of? And how do we actually make that happen without adding one more thing to our already-full plates? In today's short and practical episode, Jami shares one simple gratitude practice her family is intentionally adding back into their emotional wellness toolbox in 2026—and why this version of gratitude actually works. (And no, this is not the "be thankful and stop crying" kind of gratitude. We don't do emotional bypassing around here.) You'll hear how to build gratitude into your existing family rhythms, why it helps calm the nervous system, and how it supports emotional regulation, connection, and healthier brain patterns—for kids and parents. Resources Mentioned: Gratitude Journal for Kids ⏱️ Episode Timestamps & Highlights 0:09 – Why this conversation matters right now Looking ahead to the new year: what to add, what to take away, and why small rhythms matter more than big resolutions. 2:15 – The gratitude myth (and what gratitude is not) Why gratitude sometimes gets a bad rap—and how "just focus on the good" can actually backfire. 4:05 – The family gratitude practice we used (and loved) A simple, three-minute journaling rhythm plugged into bedtime—no pressure, no forcing, no homework vibes. 7:10 – Why modeling matters more than making it mandatory How this practice was "caught, not taught," and why that made all the difference. 10:45 – What happened when life got hard Why the practice fell away during a tough season—and why we're intentionally bringing it back. 13:30 – The science behind gratitude (the parts that actually matter) How gratitude: calms the nervous system lowers stress hormones increases emotional regulation interrupts negativity bias 18:40 – Gratitude and emotional language How this practice builds emotional awareness, vocabulary, and quicker regulation in hard moments. 22:15 – Teaching kids "both/and" thinking Why gratitude helps kids hold mixed emotions without black-and-white thinking. 25:40 – Gratitude strengthens connection How shared gratitude increases bonding, safety, and predictable moments of connection. 28:00 – The two questions every family can ask for the new year You don't need a full planning system—just one clear question and one doable rhythm. 🧠 Key Takeaways Gratitude is a skill, not a personality trait You don't need more time—just a better rhythm Gratitude works best when it's optional, modeled, and low-pressure It helps calm the nervous system without dismissing hard emotions Small, consistent practices create long-term emotional resilience 🌱 A Simple Question to Try This Week Ask yourself (or your family): What do we want more of in 2026? What's one small rhythm that could support that? And on the flip side: What do we want less of? What needs to come off the calendar—or out of our language—to make space? 💛 Want More Support Like This? If conversations like this resonate with you, you'll love the Same Page Parenting Workshop—where we help families get aligned, clear, and calm using practical tools and shared language. 👉 Stay tuned for the next workshop date 👉 Or email me at [email protected] and tell me: what you're adding to your year or what you're ready to let go of I'd love to hear from you.