With Thanksgiving season approaching, consider modeling gratefulness as you interact with each of your students. Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology at UC Davis defined it this way: "First, gratitude is an affirmation of goodness. We must affirm that there are good things in the world, gift and benefits we've received. Second, we need to recognize the sources of this goodness are outside of ourselves…"

Psalm 147:7 - "Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp."

Appreciative Approach to Classroom Discipline:

• Affirm positive/desired behaviors.
• Recognize efforts and ways students are trying to do their work.
• Recognize improvements and how far they have reached, not where they need to be.
• Recognize assets, contributions, and strengths. Express gratefulness to God for their unique gifts, talents, and contributions.

Activities to Try:

Gratitude Note: Think of someone who has done something amazing for you. This person contributed to your life or well-being in a big way. Spend the next few minutes writing a brief note, telling this person what they did, how it impacted you, and the benefits you have received. Be genuine, kind and appreciative in your note. Consider including the following: “This is what you did, how it impacted me, and here are the benefits I have received.” Then, read or send the note to them.

Three Good Things: This activity provides you with a structured opportunity to cultivate positive experiences by reflecting on them for a couple of minutes just before bedtime. Simply reflect and think of three good things and savor good moments from earlier that day. Give thanks to God for them. You may see improvements in resilience, sleep quality, work-life balance, and even depression.