Gratitude

November reminds us of one of the greatest feelings we are capable of - gratitude.  Feeling thankful is something that doesn’t require something external “happening to us”; rather it can be our own choice to make a conscious effort to notice things we may often take for granted, and to appreciate them more.  Studies show that there are mental and physical benefits to practicing gratitude - some of these benefits include decreased anxiety, improved sleep, reduced depression, stress relief, and help fighting illness.  Here is the research, and here is how you can help cultivate gratitude in kids.  And by the way – have I told you that I am so grateful for you and our amazing and supportive Newcastle community?  😊  

Some great kid-friendly books on gratitude:
All the World by Liz Garton Scanlon
An Awesome Book of Thanks! by Dallas Clayton
​Thanks a Million by Nikki Grimes