Mom, I want to leave nowwwwww.

Mom, why can't I have more candy?

Mom, Kelly won't share with me.

Mom, my stomach hurts.

On a spectrum with saint-like gratitude on one end, and world-class complainer on the other, most kids fall somewhere close to "grumpy old man."

Ah--whining is music to a mother's ears (said no mom ever).

Fortunately to the jubilation of every parent, we are now in the one ENTIRE month dedicated to gratitude. November - we did not appreciate your soothing tonic until parenthood. You are the new favorite.

Also fortunate, there is no shortage of creative ideas to promote gratitude in your household. Courtesy of the Internet, here are some favorites:

• Thanksgiving Craft: Gratitude Feather Board: There are a lot of different versions of these, from trees to turkeys to this DIY feather board. Choose a design or craft that you like best - the principle is the same.
• Gratitude Photo Scavenger Hunt: a fun idea that would also (bonus!) keep kids busy on Thanksgiving
• 7 Simple Gratitude Activities Perfect For Teaching Kids To Be Grateful: 7 good ideas that you could incorporate into the whole month

They're so fun even grumpy old men wouldn't have time to complain.