“ But everyone else has it .” “ If you loved me, you’d get it for me! ” When you hear these comments from your kids, it can be tough not to cave. You love your children―don’t you want them to be happy and to fit in? Kristen Welch knows firsthand it’s not that easy. In fact, she’s found out that when you say yes too often, it’s not only hard on your peace of mind and your wallet―it actually puts your kids at long-term risk . In Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World , Kristen shares the ups and downs in her own family’s journey of discovering: Why it’s healthiest not to give your kids everything - Teaching them the difference between “want” and “need” - What it takes to give kids perspective through service and hard work - The secrets to guiding children to become fulfilled, flourishing adults With many practical, biblical tips and anecdotes, she teaches Christian parents how to say the ultimate yes as a family by bringing up faith-filled kids who will love God, serve others, and grow into hardworking, thankful, and successful adults. Now with discussion questions, a list of recommended resources, and a sample cell phone agreement for teens, Kristen shows it’s never too late to raise grateful kids. Get ready to cultivate a spirit of genuine appreciation and create a Jesus-centered home in which your kids don’t just say―but mean !―“thank you” for everything they have. Rearing children in our contemporary culture is difficult, but rearing grateful children is even harder. In Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World , Kristen Welch gives solid practical advice. Grateful children become responsible adults. I highly recommend this book. Gary Chapman, Ph.D., Author of The Five Love Languages Parents today fight what seems like a never-ending battle against the current of the culture in raising our children. In Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World , Kristen not only inspires us to raise our children differently, but she teaches us how to actually live that out in our homes. So very practical and convicting. A must-read! Ruth Schwenk, Pastor’s wife and mama to four, coauthor of Hoodwinked, and creator of TheBetterMom.com In this fast-paced, instant gratification culture, Kristen’s countercultural message of selflessness and gratitude is much needed! This book left me convicted, challenged, and encouraged, both personally and as a parent. Crystal Paine, Founder of MoneySavingMom.com and New York Times bestselling author of Say Goodbye to Survival Mode I absolutely love this book. Kristen unearths the heart issue of why many children are selfish and unaware of the needs of others. Her words engage, inspire, and instruct parents in raising emotionally strong, healthy children who are grateful in the important moments of life. Sally Clarkson, Author of The Lifegiving Home and Own Your Life, and blogger at SallyClarkson.com I can’t think of anyone I would trust more than Kristen to teach on this topic. She’s made her entire life a testimony to doing this well, and everyone who reads this book will be inspired by her story, her heart, her wisdom, and her love of the Lord. Angie Smith, Bestselling author of several books and Bible studies including, Chasing God and Seamless Kristen’s words are so timely, and I am thankful for her hard-fought wisdom. I am all ears whenever Kristen writes because she just gets it, and it was no different with this book. If you’re looking for support and practical ideas on how to raise grateful kids in an increasingly entitled world, this book is a must-read. Sarah Mae, Author of Longing for Paris It can be so tough not to cave when your children ask for stuff. “I want it! It would make me happy! Can’t you please get it for me?” Of course you love your kids―don’t you want them to be happy and to fit in, even if it’s tough on your wallet and your peace of mind? Kristen Welch found out firsthand it’s not that easy―and learned the surprising truth that giving our kids the world looks different than what you’d expect. In Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World , Kristen shares her own family’s journey of discovering: Why it’s best and healthiest not to give our kids everything - What it takes to give kids perspective through service and hard work - The secrets to guiding children to become fulfilled, successful adults - How to say the ultimate yes as a family by bringing up faith-filled kids who love God and others It’s never too late to raise grateful kids. Get ready to cultivate a spirit of genuine appreciation and create a Jesus-centered home in which your kids don’t just say―but actually mean! ―“thank you” for everything they have. Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World How One Family Learned That Saying No Can Lead To Life's Biggest Yes By KRISTEN WELCH Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Copyright © 2015 Kristen Welch All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-1-4964-0529-6 Contents Introduction, xi, Part I
Launch, Chapter 1 Wants vs. Ne