Of all the people who can benefit most from the value of gratitude, it's teenagers. They are bombarded by advertisers with the message that they need more things, from the latest iPod to the coolest jeans. Occasionally they need a parent to step in, like I have a few times, with a quick and gentle reminder about what is really important — having each other, good health and a roof over our heads.

Thanks to the parents who shared one of their kid tips with us this week.

ENCOURAGE THE POSITIVE

To encourage my children to notice the positive things in life, I ask them to say three positive things about their day before telling us something negative. This works great for my family. Instead of coming home complaining about every little thing that went wrong that day, they come home sharing all the good news. I'm hoping this will teach them to concentrate on the positives and forget about the silly negatives. This daily ritual also could be a fun way to begin dinner conversation each evening. — Sharon, San Andreas, Calif.

FIVE STEPS TO KEEP KIDS HAPPY ON A FLIGHT

1. Exhaust them before entering the plane. If appropriate, have them walk to the gate instead of using a stroller, and/or have a race to and from various things in the airport. 2. If you have two adults, one should pre-board and organize the carry-on items. 3. Enjoy watching the planes. Every two minutes, say, "Let's go to the next window!" 4. Offer a snack and a trip to the potty before boarding the plane. 5. You and the children should be one of the last to board, saving the kids from sitting in a cramped seat for an extra 20 to 30 minutes. — M.L.T., Portland, Ore.

EXPLORE A DRAWER

Choose a drawer that is accessible to children and fill it with interesting items that promote exploration and discovery and are age-appropriate. For my grandchildren, my "ExploraDrawer" has markers, magnifying glasses, things that float, magnets, eyedroppers, a homemade rain gauge, a pinwheel, a keychain measuring tape, straws and other items for "mad scientist" experiments. Make sure all the items are safe and age-appropriate to play with. — R. Reed, Des Moines, Iowa

HEALTHY SNACKS IN ICE-CREAM CONES

My children were never interested in healthy snacks until I began serving them in ice-cream cones. I fill the cones with pudding or yogurt and bite-size pieces of fruit. — C.P.T., Minneapolis

POPSICLES FOR HEALTH

I kept fruit-flavored Popsicles in the freezer, and if I had a child who was sick and needed fluids, I would give him or her one. — C.B., Raleigh, N.C.

Readers: Please send in your favorite discipline tips.

(Always keep safety, age appropriateness and your intimate knowledge of your own child in mind when considering use of any tip.)