Building Awe and Wonder, Empathy, And Gratitude in Preschoolers
Presentation Abstract
Often interventions focus on addressing behavioral concerns in childhood and adolescence; however, promoting positive school culture and climate and building capacity for positive mental health in childhood and adolescence begins proactively in the preschool years. Our current culture reinforces personal achievement and individualism, yet research in the area of positive mental health and well-being demonstrates core competencies that recognize the world outside of one's self, and the need across cultures for social connectedness, as the building blocks to teaching and encouraging positive behaviors. This workshop will provide participants with a foundational understanding of several core competencies needed to enhance Quality of life, including awe and wonder, empathy, and gratitude. Participants will learn how to develop practical lessons and teach the skills necessary for developing awe, gratitude and empathy in young children.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Sharon; Robinson, Kimberly B.; and Van Buskirk, Ann M. Ph.D., "Building Awe and Wonder, Empathy, And Gratitude in Preschoolers" (2018). Georgia Association for Positive Behavior Support Conference. 84.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/gapbs/2018/2018/84
Building Awe and Wonder, Empathy, And Gratitude in Preschoolers
Often interventions focus on addressing behavioral concerns in childhood and adolescence; however, promoting positive school culture and climate and building capacity for positive mental health in childhood and adolescence begins proactively in the preschool years. Our current culture reinforces personal achievement and individualism, yet research in the area of positive mental health and well-being demonstrates core competencies that recognize the world outside of one's self, and the need across cultures for social connectedness, as the building blocks to teaching and encouraging positive behaviors. This workshop will provide participants with a foundational understanding of several core competencies needed to enhance Quality of life, including awe and wonder, empathy, and gratitude. Participants will learn how to develop practical lessons and teach the skills necessary for developing awe, gratitude and empathy in young children.
