The Gratitude Effect
The Gratitude Effect:
How Simple Practices Can Change Your Classroom
“It’s not the happy people who are grateful. It is the grateful people who are happy.” Francis Bacon
Imagine: It’s the end of a lively school day, and the classroom hums with the sounds of students packing up their belongings and excitedly sharing their plans for the evening. As you look around, you notice small moments of gratitude from the day still echoing in the room. Earlier, Donovan had thanked a classmate for helping him find his lost highlighter, a simple yet heartfelt exchange that brought a smile to both their faces. During recess, Emily paused her game to express her appreciation to the playground monitor for always organizing fun activities. Even in the lunchroom, you overheard Darien telling the cafeteria staff how much he enjoyed the grilled cheese—a rare but genuine acknowledgment that brightened the server's day.
As you reflect on the day, you notice Mia sitting quietly at her desk, her usually bright demeanor dimmed. You approach and ask if she’s alright. She sighs and admits feeling overwhelmed by some of the classwork today. You let her tell you about it, and she agrees to come for extra help tomorrow to work on it. Then you sit with her and ask, "What’s something, even small, that you're thankful for today?" After thinking for a moment, she mentions how a friend let her borrow a book she’s been wanting to read. You see a shift in her posture as she begins to recognize the positives around her, even in the midst of her struggles.
These small acts of gratitude sprinkled throughout the day are reminders of how powerful appreciation can be. When students express gratitude—to each other, to adults, and even for little moments—it builds connection, lifts spirits, and creates a classroom culture of positivity and support.
What Is Gratitude?
At its core, gratitude is the recognition and appreciation of the positive aspects of life, no matter how big or small. It’s about acknowledging the kindness we receive, whether it’s from others, nature, or even ourselves. Gratitude can take many forms, such as a simple thank you, a note of appreciation, or reflecting on what we’re thankful for each day. It’s a practice that can be cultivated, leading to a more positive mindset and a greater sense of community.
The Benefits of Practicing Gratitude
Incorporating gratitude into your teaching can have a profound impact on both you and your students. Research shows that practicing gratitude can lead to:
1. Improved Mental Health: Gratitude has been linked to decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety. When we focus on what we have rather than what we lack, it can shift our mindset toward positivity.
2. Stronger Relationships: Expressing gratitude fosters connections among students and between teachers and students. It encourages kindness and support, creating a more inclusive and empathetic classroom environment.
3. Increased Resilience: Grateful individuals tend to be more resilient in facing challenges. This resilience can be especially important for students facing difficulties in their personal lives.
4. Enhanced Engagement: When gratitude is a regular practice in the classroom, students are more likely to be engaged and motivated to participate in their learning.
How to Practice Gratitude in YOUR Daily Life
Incorporating gratitude into your daily routine doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Here are a few simple ways to practice gratitude yourself:
1. Gratitude Journaling: Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. This can help you focus on the positive aspects of your life, setting a grateful tone for the day.
2. Express Appreciation: Make it a habit to express gratitude to colleagues and students. A simple thank you can go a long way in building a positive classroom culture.
3. Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness exercises that focus on gratitude. For instance, during a quiet moment, invite students to close their eyes and think of something they appreciate, whether it’s a person, a place, or a memory.
4. Count Your Blessings, Instead of Sheep: As your head rests on the pillow at night, list all the things that went well that day, what brought a smile to your face, and what you are thankful for. Even on the hardest day, you’ll find something to be grateful for, even if it’s as simple as your morning coffee or the chirping birds.
Bringing Gratitude into the CLASSROOM
Incorporating gratitude into your classroom can create a positive and uplifting atmosphere. Here are some practical ideas:
1. Daily Gratitude Check-Ins: Start each day with a brief gratitude circle where students share one thing they’re grateful for. This can help students practice speaking and listening skills while fostering a sense of community.
2. Gratitude Boards: Create a gratitude board where students can post notes about what they appreciate in their lives. This can serve as a visual reminder of positivity within the classroom.
3. Gratitude Letters: Encourage students to write letters of gratitude to someone who has made a difference in their lives—whether it’s a family member, friend, or teacher. This activity not only promotes writing skills but also deepens connections.
4. Thankful Thursdays: Dedicate one day a week to express gratitude. Plan activities around the theme of gratitude, such as creating thank-you cards or discussing acts of kindness.
5. Incorporate Literature: Use books and stories that emphasize gratitude. Discuss characters who show appreciation or face challenges with a grateful mindset.
Gratitude Is My Superpower by Alicia Ortega
6. Gratitude Journaling: Take a few minutes each day to have your students write down three things they are grateful for. This can help them focus on the positive aspects of life and set a grateful tone for the day.
I like to have my students decorate their Gratitude Journals with pictures of all the things they are thankful for and that bring them joy. This is a treasure they often keep for years to come.
Here are a few examples:
“I am grateful for Mom and Dad when…”
“I am grateful to learn…”
“I am grateful to eat…”
“I am grateful for my favorite…”
“A sound that brings me joy…”
“A unique talent that I have…”
“A place that makes me feel safe and calm…”
7. Gratitude Walk: Take a walk in nature to appreciate the sounds, sights, smells, and feelings. Notice all that nature has to offer and how it makes you feel. This activity encourages mindfulness and helps students connect with nature through gratitude!
The warmth of the sun – Appreciate the sunshine that gives light and warmth to the day.
A gentle breeze – Feel thankful for the refreshing wind that cools you down and rustles the leaves.
Colorful flowers or plants – Notice the vibrant colors and beauty that nature brings to the environment.
A shady tree – Express gratitude for the trees that provide shade and a peaceful spot to rest.
Birds singing – Listen to the cheerful songs of birds and appreciate the sounds of nature.
Insects hard at work – Observe bees, ants, or butterflies going about their day, reminding us of the balance in nature.
Cloud shapes – Be grateful for the sky and the ever-changing clouds that spark imagination.
Fresh air – Breathe deeply and appreciate the clean air that fills your lungs.
The sound of leaves crunching underfoot—enjoy the sensory experience of walking on a trail covered in fallen leaves.
A peaceful moment – Take a moment to appreciate the calm and serenity that nature provides, offering a break from the hustle of the day.
8. Gratitude Scavenger Hunt: This type of activity can help children reflect on the things they appreciate in their environment!
Something that makes you smile – Find an object, picture, or person that brings a smile to your face.
Something soft – Locate something with a comforting texture, like a cozy blanket or stuffed animal.
Something that helps you learn – Spot an item in the classroom that helps you grow, like a book, a pencil, or a laptop.
Something that smells good – Find something pleasant smelling, like a flower, a candle, or freshly sharpened pencils.
Something that helps others – Identify something that helps others, like a recycling bin or a class job chart.
Something that makes a nice sound – Listen for something that brings you joy through sound, like a bell, music, or laughter.
Something you love to wear – Spot your favorite piece of clothing, whether it’s a hat, a scarf, or shoes.
Something that makes you feel safe – Find something that brings you comfort or a sense of security, like a favorite spot or a trusted friend.
Something that makes you feel proud – Look for an accomplishment, project, or object that reminds you of something you’ve done well.
Something that makes you laugh – Find an item or memory that makes you giggle, like a funny book or a joke a friend told.
Gratitude Video for Kids: Kid President
Being Sensitive and Trauma-Informed
While practicing gratitude can be powerful, it’s essential to approach this practice with sensitivity, especially in a diverse classroom where students may have different backgrounds and experiences. Here are some key considerations:
1. Acknowledge Individual Experiences: Understand that not all students may feel comfortable sharing what they’re grateful for. Encourage them to participate in ways that feel safe for them, whether through writing, drawing, or simply listening.
2. Create a Safe Space: Establish a classroom environment where students feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. Make it clear that vulnerability is welcomed and respected.
3. Focus on Small Wins: Some students may struggle to find things they are grateful for. Encourage them to appreciate small moments or acts of kindness rather than grand gestures.
4. Be Mindful of Triggers: Be aware of topics or situations that may be sensitive for some students. If a student expresses discomfort during a gratitude exercise, be supportive and offer alternatives.
5. Model Self-Compassion: As an educator, show your own vulnerability and express gratitude for the little things in your life. This can help normalize the practice and encourage students to open up.
Infusing gratitude into your teaching and classroom culture can create a positive and supportive environment for both you and your students. By taking the time to recognize and appreciate the good in our lives, we can foster a sense of belonging, resilience, and well-being. So, let’s take a moment to pause and reflect—what are you grateful for today?
As you embark on this journey of gratitude, remember that every little step counts. Together, let’s create classrooms filled with appreciation, kindness, and joy!
One more thing… If you’d like an engaging and meaningful Gratitude Activity for Thanksgiving, take a peek at Thanksgiving Dinner: A Mindfulness for Gratitude Lesson and Activity. If you’d like additional mindfulness resources, visit www.themindfitteacher.com.
Be well,
Christine Levine
