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Expanding Compassion

Ten Fingers Of Gratitude

Expanding Compassion

Ten Fingers Of Gratitude

Learning Outcomes

Self-awareness
Relationship skills

Materials Needed

Pen & Paper

Time it Takes

10 minutes

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Did You Know?

Research shows that practicing gratitude can lead to better health, more happiness, and stronger connections with others.

What?

An activity that highlights the value of gratitude for our bodies, our emotional well-being and our relationships with others.

Why?

An attitude of gratitude helps young people form, maintain and strengthen supportive relationships, while also acting as an affirmation of the goodness in the world. The more we practice gratitude, the more we will feel a sense of appreciation for the blessings, small or large, in our lives.

How?

  • Download and distribute the illustration below or ask the participant(s) to trace their hands on a piece of paper.
  • On the hand illustration, ask participant(s) to write one thing for which they are grateful on each finger. For example, "I am grateful for my backyard."
  • After the activity is completed, engage the participant(s) in a discussion using the suggested conversation starters as a jumping off point.

Conversation Starters

  • Share a story of a time when you felt gratitude because of a person’s words or actions.
  • What steps can you take to notice the good around you and express your gratitude?

Dive Deeper

If you don’t already, try beginning the practice of writing in a gratitude journal each morning before you start your day or before bed. Make sure your journal is something attractive so that you’re drawn to writing in it.

Want more?

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