Day 287: The Gratitude of Children

The divine fatherhood is the source of human fatherhood; this is the foundation of the honor owed to parents. the respect of children, whether minors or adults, for their father and mother is nourished by the natural affection born of the bond uniting them. It is required by God's commandment. CCC 2214

In today's reading, the Catechism discusses the gratitude of children to their parents under the Fourth Commandment. As minor children, they owe obedience and respect to their parents "in all that they ask of them when it is for their good or that of the family". As adults, these children are no longer required to give their parents obedience but respect "is always owed to them," for "this respect has its roots in the fear of God, one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit" (CCC 2217). 

The Catechism Compendium summarizes the duties of children toward their parents:

Children owe respect (filial piety), gratitude, docility, and obedience to their parents. In paying them respect and in fostering good relationships with their brothers and sisters, children contribute to the growth in harmony and holiness in family life in general. Adult children should give their parents material and moral support whenever they find themselves in situations of distress, sickness, loneliness, or old age. (#459)

The Catechism Companion Vol III has some good commentary on this:

Thankfulness is the basis for respecting parents. Their love and effort have given their children life and opportunities to mature. Although all families have imperfections, there is much to be grateful for. It is essential to acknowledge both the good and the bad in family relationships. That is not to dismiss real pains, actual abuse, or neglect. Those things are in so many people's lives, and they are real... There are some situations in which we can do little to help, but we should do what we can. One day, we will run out of time to express our gratitude to our parents. (p. 90)