Note to parent or teacher: Here is a 30-minute 0–5 lesson plan on the importance of gratitude and ways to demonstrate thankfulness to God and others.
Read “Dunkin.”
Think of one thing that happened to you recently that might not have been what you hoped for, but that turned out all right in the end. Discuss how looking for the good in a situation can make it easier to be happy when things don’t go as you wished or planned.
Read “My Little Talks with Jesus: Look on the Bright Side.”
Memorize this little rhyme:
“I’ll look on the bright side when things make me sad.
Soon I’ll find plenty of reasons to be glad!”1
The next time you’re feeling down because something isn’t going your way, remember this little rhyme, and take a few minutes to find something to be joyful about.
Read “Through Ups and Downs.”
Take a moment to pray, and ask Jesus to help you be positive and grateful throughout your day, especially when things don’t go as you planned.
Watch “Sing a Song of Joy.”
Talk about how one way to find joy is by looking for ways to make others happy. Then brainstorm little acts of kindness to make others happy.
Use “Have Fun with Gratitude” to think of three things you are grateful for and draw them in the little boxes. Post the picture by your bed so you can be reminded of these things at the start and end of each day.
Optional activity:
Footnote:
1 Katiuscia Giusti, “My Little Talks with Jesus: Look on the Bright Side.”
Compiled by My Wonder Studio staff.
Published by My Wonder Studio. Copyright © 2018 by The Family International