This week's P2 trait is Gratitude. We hope you'll take a few minutes sometime this week and use the links at the bottom of this message to talk to your child about this character trait.
What it is.
Gratitude is the quality of feeling and expressing thankfulness and appreciation. It is an affirmation that there is goodness in other people and the world, and that we have received that goodness. People with the strength of gratitude have a readiness to show appreciation for kindness and also to return kindness.
Why it matters.
Of all 24 character strengths, gratitude is the single best predictor of individual well-being. It is correlated with increased energy, empathy, happiness and optimism. And the great thing about gratitude is that it can be intentionally cultivated. Numerous studies have concluded that gratitude is like a muscle; the more you practice it, the stronger it gets.
On a group level, gratitude is associated with reciprocity and social stability. Grateful people are more likely than their counterparts to feel a commitment to other people. When a person does a favor for you, you tend to feel thankful and be motivated to return the favor. Groups that operate with gratitude are usually more cohesive.
Practice at home.
To practice this character trait at home, please visit P2 for Families, where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote a three questions. Click the link below appropriate for your child's grade level.