Raising kids with kind hearts filled with gratitude feels like an uphill battle these days. It's no secret that screens dominate their attention—heads buried in phones and tablets, tuning out the world around them. But it doesn't have to be this way.

If we let kids do what they want with technology, many will struggle to grasp what it really means to be kind, respectful, and thankful.

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And here's the tougher truth: parents aren't always present either, caught up in their own whirlwind.

If both sides are disconnected, how do we break the cycle?

How do parents show up fully as role models, living kindness and gratitude instead of just preaching it?

The K.I.S.S. ~ Model what you want to pass on!

Here are three actions every parent can make to be truly present and set a powerful example.

1. Ditch Distractions – Commit to Screen-Free Moments

If kids see you glued to your phone or laptop, scrolling mindlessly, it sends the message that real connection is optional. The first step is radical honesty: identify the pockets of time where you can switch off technology—no notifications, no sneaky checks. Dinner time, bedtime stories, or even a 15-minute walk are golden opportunities. These moments show your child that they have your full attention. Presence breeds connection, and connection is the foundation of teaching kindness and gratitude.

2. Practice Open, Intentional Conversations

Being present means more than physically being in the room. It means engaging with your child on a real level. Ask questions that require more than "yes" or "no." Listen actively, reflect their feelings, and share your own honestly. Show them it's okay to express gratitude, not just as a polite word but as a genuine feeling. When you talk about your day's frustrations or joys, model empathy and thankfulness. Kids learn how to communicate kindness by seeing it modeled, not just hearing it preached.

3. Choose Actions Over Words Every Day

Kindness and gratitude aren't abstract concepts—they live in daily actions. You can role model these by doing small but intentional acts like saying "thank you" often, helping a neighbor, or admitting when you're wrong. Invite your children to participate in these gestures. Whether it's volunteering together or writing thank-you notes, these practical experiences stick with kids beyond any lecture. When parents prioritize kindness as a lifestyle, children catch on fast.

Parenting is a full-time, no-BS job. It's tempting to justify distractions with the pressures of multiple work demands, but none of that counts if your kids don't feel you. Your time is the most powerful currency you offer. Prioritize your children with purpose, raising more than just good kids—to raise people capable of changing the world around them with kindness and a grateful heart.

You alone decide what living legacy you leave with your presence. So get off autopilot. Show up. Speak up. Love intentionally. Your kids—and the world—need it more than ever.

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"

#ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent

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Cover Art by Jenny Hamson

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Music by Mandisa - Overcomer

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Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.