Be Grateful and Share Gratitude

 November is National Gratitude Month. When we think of gratitude, we focus on the things that we have or are given to us. What if we spent some of our time focused on giving to others. Most people think of giving during the week of Thanksgiving as that is the traditional time that we truly focus on the things that are great in our lives. Many people give to food banks, serve at rescue shelters, or spend time giving or sharing with those less fortunate. This year, consider doing something for our retired and injured military. November 11th is Veteran’s Day. Veteran’s day is our national holiday to celebrate those who serve in the military- mostly those who are retired. You can participate in Veteran’s Day as well as give someone else something to be grateful for by writing letters. Sending a letter or card to a veteran thanking them for all they do or did for our country can bolster their confidence, remind them of how much we appreciate their sacrifices, and build a sense of community for them and you. Below are some ways you to send letters and cards to veterans for Veteran’s Day.

Support Our Troops

13791 N. Nebraska Avenue

Tampa, FL 33613.

Card and Letter Writing Campaign

Guidelines and Information

Operation Gratitude

Helping Disabled Veterans

Donation and Volunteer Information

A Million Thanks Operation

Send a Letter Campaign information and guidelines

You can also send donations and letters to help wounded veterans to the Red Cross

American Red Cross in the National Capital Region

8550 Arlington Blvd

Fairfax, VA 22031

Books About Being Grateful

The Giving Tree by Silverstein The Thank You Book by Willems

Gratitude is the Best Way to Be A Better Person

As Thanksgiving rolls around each November, schools and families look for ways to instill an attitude of gratitude in children and students. Studies show that when children practice expressing gratitude, they have higher levels of optimism, increased life satisfaction, and decreased negative feelings.  Additionally, children who regularly express gratitude appreciate close relationships and feel better about life and school.  Being grateful takes practice, but it leads us right to happiness. Think about what you are thankful for, every day, and your mindset will begin to change. You will see more positive and positive is a great thing.  Check out the video for more information and ways to identify gratitude!


Practice Gratitude Video

Sometimes it can be hard to think of things to be grateful for, especially when we’re overwhelmed or dealing with grief/loss.  There’s usually something within the day to be grateful for - even if it’s that the sun is shining, you get to have your favorite food for dinner, or you get to laugh with a friend.  Sometimes we can take for granted things we can do that others can’t or need assistance doing - being able to breath, walking, being able to see/hear.  Write down as many things you can think about while completing this activity on the Gratitude ABCs!  You can also reflect while decorating your Gratitude Coloring Page or taking time to recognize an Oberon teacher/staff person by completing the express gratitude form.