This week we participated in Wellbeing Week, both online and in-person. We decided that with the increased pressures of Remote Teaching and Learning, we would have a specific focus on ‘Gratitude’. Gratitude has been shown to be one of the strongest correlates of emotional wellbeing, and numerous studies have supported the idea that gratitude enhances happiness. It also is a major influencer on the School Value of ‘Resilience’, as it aids in strengthening our resiliency. Like any skill, the feeling of gratitude needs to be regular practised. To support the student’s ability to demonstrate gratitude, we completed two activities that looked to enhance the development of this feeling.
The first activity was a ‘thank you letter’ to a someone special in their life, to thank them for all the support they provided during Remote Teaching and Learning or another time in their life. Many of our parents have worked tirelessly to support their children’s education as well as upholding their own work duties. We asked the children to show that appreciation by writing handwritten notes to say thank you for all their amazing support they provided them during this period.
The second activity was a daily gratitude journal. This activity has shown to be a key contributor in developing positive behaviours. We asked students to write down or draw three things that they are grateful for that day. Writing these down is an important step as it allows the students time to reflect on the positive things that have occurred to them throughout the day.
We hope that the students, as well as members of the school community, continue these activities past Wellbeing Week. For more information about the importance of gratitude, click here.
