DURHAM, Oregon – Why and How to Say “Thank You” is an ACTIVITY BOOK for preschool and
elementary-age children by local resident Alison Gilham. It focuses on the importance of gratitude (the
“Why”) and suggests simple ways to thoughtfully express and creatively say “Thank You” (the “How”).
“This is a grassroots campaign to teach kids the importance of being thankful for the little things that
we experience every day as well as revive the tradition and practice of giving ‘Thank You’ cards,”
explains Gilham. “Grandparents, in particular, are frustrated to the point of reducing or simply stopping
unacknowledged gifts – specifically money. Baby Boomers are a very enthusiastic demographic!”
The durable, coil-bound activity book has heavy laminated pages that allow youngsters to practice
writing their ‘Thank You’ card on the template page with the dry-erase marker provided. They can also
write names and add notes next to the expressive clipart-style characters by illustrator Mable Chin
that depict the ‘Thank You’ situations throughout the book. The package includes a zipper pouch
containing one dry-erase marker, five blank cards and envelopes, four Crayola Crayons, and a sheet
of 100 glitter star stickers.
The book has already positively impacted one pre-release family. Regarding the example situation
‘Someone waited for me,’ Emily N. disclosed, “One of my children is frequently the last one to get in
the van. We are often waiting for him. Now he knows to say ‘thank you.’ He’s aware of our sacrifice.”
Although the book text was written the day the idea struck her, Gilham produced five prototypes over as
many years as it evolved into the creative activity book and package it is today.
Available online: https://thankyoubook.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alison.saythankyoubook
