A new study suggests that happy children can reduce their parents' stress levels and improve their overall well-being.

Teaching children good manners involves more than just saying "please" and "thank you" from an early age; these polite words, along with other actions, may carry a deeper meaning.

According to a recent study in The Journal of Positive Psychology, hearing "thank you" from their children can improve parents' mental well-being and reduce stress.

A total of 593 parents participated in the study, with their children aged between 4 and 17 years old.

The survey on the impact of gratitude in family units was completed by parents who were either married or in romantic relationships.

To determine if a child's age influenced parents' feelings of gratitude, data was evaluated for two groups of children: those aged 4 to 12 years and those aged 13 to 17 years.

The study found that both older and younger children expressing gratitude is associated with lower stress levels among parents.

Fathers may not experience the same level of gratitude as mothers.

A child and adolescent psychiatrist with Novant Health in Charlotte, North Carolina, said that gratitude can reduce stress for parents by providing a sense of affirmation, according to Rajasekhar Kannali, M.D.

"Appreciation can also strengthen the parent-child bond, creating a more harmonious family dynamic."

According to Kannali, acknowledging the value of their work can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed and tired, leading to a more optimistic perspective on parenthood.

"The bond between parents and children can be strengthened through appreciation, resulting in a more harmonious family dynamic."

The doctor stated that children often appreciate saying "thank you" to their parents because it confirms their efforts and sacrifices.

According to Kannali, expressing gratitude by children can make parents feel seen and valued, thereby reminding them that their love and dedication have a positive impact.

When parents are recognized, they tend to be more motivated and involved in their role, resulting in more joyful interactions and a more content family atmosphere.

Gratitude fosters a culture of appreciation and emotional connection, creating a positive feedback loop that benefits both children and parents, according to Kannali.

Here's more insight.

How does gratitude springboard better parental mindsets?

According to Mia Rosenberg, LCSW, a psychotherapist with Upsider Therapy in New York, gratitude from children can help parents feel less stressed, more appreciated, and happier overall because it shows that the child cares.

Acknowledging what parents provide to their kids can make them feel rewarded, which can motivate them to do it again, according to her.

How can parents instill gratitude in kids?

Parents' actions and reactions serve as guidelines for children on how to handle situations, Rosenberg stated.

By demonstrating appreciation to children, we can instill in them the importance of valuing any gift or act of kindness, she pointed out.

Expressing gratitude to a child through language like "I am thankful for the lovely weather today" or "I appreciate how fortunate we are to have all our necessities met daily" is a helpful way to demonstrate appreciation.

Rosenberg stated that the objective is to demonstrate contentment with what we possess and embrace a sense of gratitude for those suggestions or belongings.

Agreeing with Kannali of Novant Health, instilling gratitude as a fundamental aspect of children's lives can have a significant impact.

By employing techniques such as discussing emotions, fostering empathy, acknowledging efforts without solely focusing on results, establishing gratitude routines, demonstrating gratitude while teaching reflection, and avoiding overindulgence, parents can help children develop a genuine appreciation that goes beyond polite words.

The expert stated that these actions foster a lifelong appreciation for people and experiences.