Attitude of Grattitude

 

"Gratitude rewires the brain, boosting happiness, reducing depression, and improving overall well-being." according to the case study done by Tremendo. I found this to be true in my life as well and began thinking of ways we could help students cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

I believe it starts with US!

1. Lead by example. 

If we are going to help students practice gratitude, we need to be doing it ourselves. I love to let students know I am grateful for them by writing them notes, praising them, having lunch with them, and asking them specific questions to know them better.  I also write down 5 things I'm thankful for each day. Teachers could incorporate a time in their day where students quickly write down things they are thankful for. (See next idea). This simple action has truly helped me be grateful for the small things in my life, see how God has his hand on every detail of my life, and helps me choose joy each day.

2. Daily Gratitude Time

When I was in the classroom, I allowed my students a few minutes each day to complete a Daily Check In via a Goggle Form. I asked them how they were feeling, what they were thankful for, and what goal they had for themselves for the day. I would read these quickly before class got started and it helped me know where my students were emotionally for the day, gave me specific things to talk with them about, and encourage them to see their blessings. We also had a Thankful Thursday class meeting each week. This was a time students were able to share out loud what they were thankful for and give compliments to one another. 

3. Classroom Activities

Each month, I tried to incorporate an Acts of Kindness activity tied to the month, season, and/or holiday where students could let others know they were thankful for them or give back to our school. This helps students experience the joy of giving to and helping others. Some of the activities I have done include HartAttack, Light Up Our Classroom, and Gratitude Challenge.

I'm thankful you took a few minutes to read this. Let me know if you try any of the ideas here or how you help cultivate an attitude of gratitude in your classroom. 

Gratitude Challenge

Gratitude is a trait I have been trying to help my students cultivate this year. Each day when they check in, they reflect and share one thing they are grateful for. I love reading what they are thankful for! It is easy to take what we have for granted. 

I am initiating a Gratitude Challenge for my students starting tomorrow. I am going to "challenge" them to write a note to one person each day saying thank you for something they do for them.

I created a calendar with a different person each school day until Thanksgiving break. I am going to print one off for each student. They can color in the box after they complete that "challenge". The goal is to spread an attitude of gratitude throughout our classroom and entire school.

Click here to grab a copy of this Gratitude Challenge!

 I will print out leaves for students to write their notes on and encourage them to write and deliver one a day.

Teachers and other staff members can join in too! Let's grow our own gratitude and thankful attitudes while encouraging those around us. During a time of year that can be stressful and busy, let's model for and teach our students what really matters.

I hope you will participate in the Gratitude Challenge!