Here is a
lesson that could be life-changing. The lesson is: helping a child to find positives in various situations.
What I am about to suggest takes “thankfulness” one step further; that is being thankful for all things,
whether good or bad. I know this seems bold and our society at this time sometimes
makes fun of “polyanna” attitudes,but this is exactly what I am proposing. Yes,
I am saying we should present the story of Polyanna to the children either by book or CD.
Have fun with your children. It is the perfect time to read them the story of Pollyanna. One
good character trait is being grateful for all we have. To refresh yourself on this heart-wrenching story click http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/pollyanna/synopsis.html. It would even be fun to buy (or rent) the cd version
with Haley Mills and Jane Wyman – 1960 http://www.amazon.ca/Pollyanna-Widescreen-Discs-David-Swift/dp/B00005RRGB.
After the children know the story, they will love
it so. It never will grow old. Many adults refer back to it when they think of
their childhood.
After discussing the story, present to the children
“the glad game.” You start off with something that perhaps is not pleasant for you, and turn it around to positive. Let the children chime in and think of things that they are “glad”
about. Actually, this game could go on for a couple of weeks until that positive attitude became the norm.
You could have the class make a mural or an
individual picture of things they don’t like or don’t like to do. Then,
another mural or picture of how they found something to be glad about, using the same scenario. Example: The child doesn’t like to take a bath, so he draws a picture of himself/herself taking a
bath. Next picture, he is taking a bath but now is glad because _____________. If the children are having problems thinking
of how they can find gladness in certain situations, you could give them about
three sentences to choose from. Example: I am GLAD that I have to take a bath
because (1) I can have a treat afterwards, (2) It will make me feel so good, (3) When I take a bath, It cleanses my body and
therefore I will be healthier, (4) Some children in other countries can’t take a bath, so I am GLAD I can take one.
The children could write a poem (6 and 7 year olds)
using the words, (1) glad, (2) sad, (3) mad, (4) bad, (5) had, (6) Dad.
Encourage the children to play the “glad game”
with an adult or siblings at home. Ask if they would like to share some of the
things that the family turned into gladness.
Perhaps we all should play the “glad game”
that Pollyanna promoted and count our blessings. I know I have many, many wonderful
blessings in my life.
· Francine Larson
