Attitude. Isn’t having a “good day” or a “bad day” all dependent on attitude?
One day I was listening to a bit of complaining (both other voices and the one inside my head) and it hit me: right now I’m being a person who sees the glass half empty. I’m focusing on what I *rather* be doing, or what I *rather* other people be doing, instead of cherishing what I have right in front of me and trying to make the best of it.
After a while of considering this, I decided to share the concept of optimism with my boys by having them fill up a cup with water. They both filled up half a glass, and we discussed if they were “half empty” or “half full.” We talked about how the amount of water is really the same, but people can focus on what is missing or what is there.
When we see the possibilities and appreciate what we have, we are being optimistic.
It was a simple activity, but one that I have used to remind them about having a positive attitude on more than one occasion since.
And – of equal importance – it reminded me just how much my own attitude is affecting the development of my kids, as well as our days together.
If we adults want to teach kids to be optimistic, well, we better show a bit of optimism ourselves.
Here are some more thoughts about raising a happy child from Kids Yoga Stories. And some more ideas about raising optimistic children here from Crafting Connections.
Are you a person who sees a glass half full? How are you helping your children to become optimistic, positive people?
If you liked this activity, you may enjoy my ebook Playing with Purpose: Character Building Made Fun. With over 100 playful ideas for introducing positive character traits for children, it is a handy resource for creating positivity in the home. Go here to check it out.
[…] Teach Kids To Be Optimistic with a Fun Hands-on Activity […]