Amidst the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, the acts of saying “thank you” and expressing gratitude often become overlooked. For elementary students, acknowledging the role caregivers play in their lives is pivotal for emotional and social development. The fall season, often seen as a time of reflection and gratitude, is the perfect opportunity for children to express their thanks. What better way than with the Free Elementary Apple of My Eye Appreciation Craft?
Why Teaching Appreciation is Essential
Children aren’t merely blank slates; they’re observant, receptive, and often mimic the behaviors they see. Teaching them to express gratitude and appreciation:
- Deepens Bonds: Recognizing the support from caregivers solidifies their foundational relationships.
- Boosts Well-being: Research indicates gratitude exercises enhance mood and overall happiness.
- Develops Empathy: By seeing the good in others, kids learn to appreciate diverse perspectives.
Free Elementary Apple of My Eye Appreciation Craft
This craft intertwines creativity and sentiment, allowing students to express their gratitude beautifully.
Materials Needed:
- Markers, crayons or colored pencils
- Glue and scissors
Lesson Plan: “Expressing Thanks with The Apple of My Eye Craft”
Objective: By the end of this lesson, students will have a deeper understanding of gratitude and will express their appreciation towards their caregivers.
Duration: 30 minutes
- Discussion (5 minutes):
- Begin by talking about the concept of gratitude. Why is it important? Who are they thankful for?
- Demonstrating the Craft (5 minutes):
- Show a finished sample of the craft and explain the significance.
- Crafting Session (10 minutes):
- Allow students to dive into their crafts, writing or drawing about their chosen person.
- Sharing Time (10 minutes):
- Give a few students the opportunity to present their apples, emphasizing the importance of listening and respecting each story.
Wrapping Up:
Instilling gratitude in young minds helps foster a generation that values relationships and the efforts of others. The Apple of My Eye Craft not only taps into the festive fall spirit but provides an expressive outlet for students. This fall, let’s fill classrooms with apples brimming with love, gratitude, and the heartfelt stories of young souls.
Sample Video
Students learn best from watching real students their own age model skills. Try out this sample video-modeling lesson below. We offer our entire Social-Emotional Learning platform free for 30 days here!
Related Blog Posts:
Teaching Gratitude: The Importance of Saying Thank You in Social-Emotional Learning
Expressing Appreciation: A Quick Speech on the Importance of Gratitude
