Inspirational snowfall

Time

5 minutes

Level

Primary / Junior / Intermediate

Material

Recycling paper, technology, music, timer

Purpose

To provide a fun way for students to send each other positive affirmations and to encourage an optimistic outlook amongst others

Instructions

Ask students to write a positive affirmation on the recycling paper (model what an appropriate message looks like). Affirmations can also come from biblical passages.
Next, crumple the paper and toss it. Keep picking up and tossing the “snowflakes” until the music stops. Remind students to keep the “snowflakes” moving and not to aim them at someone.
Then pick one up and read it to yourself. Repeat the message to yourself a few times if desired. Then embrace that concept for the day!
Wrap up by having students sit with their affirmation paper and take a few deep breaths to reflect on the ideas.

Supplementary resources

An anchor chart of ideas or pre-printed ideas if needed.

Adaptations

Could make the snowfall theme focused (e.g., today we are going to share ideas for ways to reduce feelings of stress, or today we are going to share ideas for welcoming new students).
Another alternative is to have a few students read their affirmation aloud.

Noticing joy and positivity, and sharing kindness, can be helpful for maintaining an optimistic worldview. Many evidence-based programs that are designed to enhance optimism and reduce depressive symptoms have activities that help students to “find the silver lining.”

Optimism serves to help any individual as: 1) a protective factor for both mental and physical health, 2) a support for resiliency, 3) it correlates with positive coping skills, 4) it predicts both positive outcomes after adverse events and peer acceptance in early adolescents and 5) it benefits overall health and well-being (Schonert-Reichl & Lawlor, 2010).