Gratitude is great to practice. It is less about being thankful for everything in life and more about being intentional to note the positive. It helps us reflect and be appreciative on what we have instead of getting caught up in the grind and working for what we lack.
If you’re just getting started, you may have read about keeping a daily journal or log. Of the available literature, this seems to be the most common approach and the more likely to be continued by participants (Wood et al., 2010). Writing a letter of gratitude to a person you appreciate has been shown to increase self reported happiness for up to a month (Seligman et al., 2005)
Our family decided to change it up and make gratitude jars. This activity still requires you to write down what you are grateful for, but it also includes arts and crafts, which I’m a big fan of. They are super easy to make and this project can include just about every body. All of these items can be purchased from Michaels or the Dollar Store
What you’ll need
- Newspaper or paper bags
- Mason Jars
- Michaels sells 8oz jars in a package of 6 for $5.99. If you’re into recycling you can swap an empty glass jelly jar or an empty pickle jar. You’d need to boil the jars before hand and scrub off the label and glue.
- Paint brush
- Michaels sells a variety of brushes. I bought the synthetic brush pack for $5.99
- Paint
- You’ll want to select a paint that is appropriate for glass. I bought FolkArt Multi Surface Acrylic Paint in a few of my favorite colors. Each bottle was $1.99.
- Oven
- Note paper
Step 1 Use newspaper or paper bags from the most recent grocery run to protect your work surface. We were crafting on the dining room table.
Step 2 Use your paintbrush and paint to make your design on the mason jar. The paint will need to dry completely before going in the oven. Read the instructions on your paint label, ours recommends 24 hours.
Step 3 While your jars are drying cut out note paper to write out a few things you are grateful for. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. You could be grateful for waking up in the morning, being able to finish a task, or having a roof over your head.
Step 4 Once your jar is dry, let it cure in the oven as directed on the paint label. It is really important to place your project in a cool oven first since the glass should heat gradually WITH the oven. Do NOT place glass in a hot oven.
Step 5 After you’ve allowed your project to sit in the oven according to your label instructions, take it out and let your jar cool. After it is cool put your notes inside.
If you’re having a day that you need a boost, take a note out and read it to yourself. To take it a step further, use some breathing exercises while thinking about your note. You’d be surprised how nice it is to have a jar full of reminders. No wonder gratitude has been linked to more positive emotions, more compassion and kindness.
Try it with your kids and let us know in the comments how it goes! Better yet, snap a photo and tag us on instagram #untetheredcrafts
