If you're like me, you've heard this sentiment before; often, scoffingly directed by an adult toward a child/young person with a behavior they have interpreted to be 'ungrateful.' Can you hear it in your mind's eye?

But what if adults said things like, "If kids these days were offered the opportunity to learn and practice gratitude daily, a skill set would be fostered that might make them happier-make them stronger-make them more resilient and thriving human beings"? How does it feel when you practice gratitude in your daily life as an adult? What happens for you when you engage in a practice that encourages you to reflect on the things-tangible or intangible, small or large-that have enriched your lives? 

Harvard Health Publishing at Harvard Medical School, "Giving Thanks Can Make You Happier," explores this very concept:

"Two psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, have done much of the research on gratitude. In one study, they asked all participants to write a few sentences each week, focusing on particular topics. One group wrote about things they were grateful for that had occurred during the week. A second group wrote about daily irritations or things that had displeased them, and the third wrote about events that had affected them (with no emphasis on them being positive or negative). After 10 weeks, those who wrote about gratitude were more optimistic and felt better about their lives. Surprisingly, they also exercised more and had fewer visits to physicians than those who focused on sources of aggravation (Harvard Health Publishing, 2021)." 

Giving thanks-having and expressing gratitude-is for the individual as much as anyone else. It's connected to the ability to reframe a challenging thought or situation, the antidote to a bad day, and a key to experiencing joy even in the face of adversity. There are numerous ways we can support children and youth in cultivating gratitude, and in doing so, potentially contribute to a lifelong skill set designed to support them in leading their best lives. So, the next time you hear someone say, "Kids these days need to be more grateful," I hope you agree, not because they are "spoiled rotten," but because they are our next generation of wonderful young people who deserve to have the skills needed to experience joy, thriving outcomes, and resiliency-deserve to reach to their optimum potential. 

Some quick gratitude ideas for adults and kids: 

• Make it a game (previous editions of the weekly SEL corner look at a couple of ideas - from gratitude pick-up sticks to infusion in STEM challenges) 
• Set up a "how to write a thank you card" station that's always accessible to the children with the materials they need to do so. Make it a weekly practice! 
• Start a gratitude jar. Help children and staff notice when their mood might need a pick-up and they may visit the jar as a self-selected regulation practice. 
• Thank someone mentally - practice a quick "pause - breath - thank" routine that allows someone to take just 30 seconds to notice their thoughts and implement a strategy. 
• Count your blessings on a day when you're already feeling great. Make a list of 10 things that matter SO much to you and that you are grateful for. On a day when you're 'stuck,' pull out the list and use it to remind you of those things that bring you joy. 

May you each be well! 

May you each have joy! 

May you each have peace! 

May you each be loved! 

May you each give love! 

With warmest wishes to each of you in this season of gratitude and generosity, 

Abigail J. Blodgett, B.S., NH ASMP

ACROSS NH Social and Emotional Learning Coordinator

You are Invited!

The ACROSS NH Social, Emotional, and Mindful Learning (SEML) Community of Practices are open to new members. Consider joining the next community of practice to participate in a mindful moment for yourself and engage in thoughtful, supportive discussion amongst colleagues! 

This SEML Community of Practice is for out of school time staff, site directors, and directors. We will focus on the guiding principles of social, emotional, and mindfulness learning in OST programs, share resources, practices, and collaborate with like-minded colleagues. Participants will walk away with a refocused lens on implementing SEL in OST. All sessions are virtual and meet from 10:15-11:30am on Zoom. Click here for a flyer!

Tuesday, November 14

Thursday, January 11

Thursday, February 8

Tuesday, March 13

Thursday, April 18

Tuesday, May 7

Register for any date you choose in NHCIS, or email Abigail Blodgett, ACROSS NH SEL Coordinator, at ablodgett@acrossnh.org.  Professional development hours are awarded in NHCIS.