Positive Psychology Experts' "Making Grateful Kids" Releases Today

LOS ANGELES, March 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- In today's consumer-driven, hyper-connected culture, many are concerned with children's and teen's sense of entitlement. However, new research from experts in positive psychology shows that instilling gratitude in the next generation is not only possible, but imperative, for countering this tendency and helping young people focus on personal development and making a difference in the world.

Jeffrey Froh and Giacomo Bono have conducted extensive research on the measurement, development and enhancement of gratitude in children and adolescents. Their findings are shared in their book, "Making Grateful Kids: The Science of Building Character," releasing today from Templeton Press and available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

"Making Grateful Kids" is the result of seven years of research showing that gratitude is vital to a child's healthy development. Children who exhibit more gratitude tend to have better social interactions, higher grades, and stronger connections to their schools and communities. Furthermore, they partake in less risky behavior, have more goals for the future, and are more generous.

"Gratitude is imperative for every child to learn," said Froh. "It enhances children's quality of life and helps them grow into contributing members of society. Learning to become grateful takes effort, but with the guidance and strategies in our book, parents and teachers can make kids more grateful."

In "Making Grateful Kids," Froh and Bono provide 32 research-based strategies for instilling gratitude. Examples include:

• Encourage children to recognize the good intentions of others and sacrifice behind the kindnesses they receive.
• Be a role model of thanking and giving.
• Teach children to be critical consumers of media and place limits on screen time.

"Teaching children gratitude is one of the best things you can do for them," said Bono. "However, you must be intentional about it, which can be overwhelming for busy parents, teachers and coaches. Our strategies are simple, practical steps that adults in every home and classroom can use to connect more meaningfully with a child and focus on what matters most to the child and the adult."

For more information, visit http://makinggratefulkids.com/.

Note to Editors: For more information, visit www.alarryross.com/newsroom/makinggratefulkids. To receive a copy of "Making Grateful Kids" or schedule an interview, please contact Julie Shutley at [email protected]or 972.267.1111.

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SOURCE A. Larry Ross Communications