This past weekend my amazing mother-in-law (MIL) came to help out as the Hubs recovered from his surgery. My MIL spoils my kids rotten- a tradition they all love!  And let’s face it, my kids don’t go without thanks to the Hubs and I either. We do make Scorch earn enough stickers doing various things throughout the house to get something extra special. But this summer was filled with a million big and little trips- each one requiring a souvenir according to the Hubs.

Unfortunately all this spoiling and the gluttony of things have turned Scorch into a child who only wants more. Yesterday at dinner I asked him what his favorite part about the day was. He said he didn’t have a favorite part because we refused to buy him the football he wanted.  Mind you- over the course of the weekend, he got 4 new pairs of shoes (including much coveted cleats), a new baseball glove, was taken to a Bounce House and countless parks and out to dinner each night.  So…yeah. Spoiled much?

I don’t mind getting these things because the Hubs and I usually only stick to the necessities and the fun stuff is only bought once Scorch has earned them or for holidays.  But what I do mind is his complete lack of gratitude.  And I don’t know how to teach him that at this age. Reasoning with him doesn’t work because he’s 4 and doesn’t get a lot of the abstract “there are starving kids in XYZ country- don’t you know how lucky you are?” conversation.  Do I take him to volunteer? Do I just keep talking to him and pray that this will finally click?

I’m at a loss! How did you teach your kids to be grateful?