In this activity, teens will explore gratitude in a fun, creative way! They’ll start by writing down a few things they’re thankful for and then express those thoughts using their artistic skills—whether it’s drawing, collage, or digital/graphic design.
Introduction:
Begin by discussing the importance of gratitude and how it can positively impact mental health. Share examples of gratitude in everyday life and explain how it can shift perspective.
Supplies Needed:
Something to write on (physical paper or computer)
Old magazines, newspapers, and other craft materials (stickers, colored pens, markers, etc.) or a digital platform like Canva where you can create art/visuals.
Journaling and Collage Time
Ask teens to spend the first 10 minutes writing down 3 things they are grateful for using the prompts.
Then, have them create a visual collage next to their written entries. They can cut out images, words, or symbols from the magazines that represent the things they’ve written about. Encourage them to add personal drawings, doodles, or additional notes.
Sharing:
Invite anyone who feels comfortable to share one page from their gratitude collage journal with the group. They can talk about what they’re grateful for and why they chose those specific images or words for their collage.
Closing Reflection:
End with a short group discussion on how practicing gratitude felt during the session. How can they incorporate gratitude into their daily lives?
This group is hosted by the nonprofit organization &Rise. &Rise offers several weekly support groups that are 100% private, 100% confidential, and 100% supportive!
Please note, this is not a therapy group but a community of women survivors supporting and talking with one another about their experiences and healing.
We have an amazing group of girls that are kind and know what you are going through. You do not have to suffer alone or suffer in silence, we are here for you! YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
Group facilitator Helen Quinn Pasin is a certified sexuality educator who specializes in teen empowerment through healthy relationship skills, education on consent and boundaries, and promoting mental health and body positivity. To learn more about Helen, visit her site at: https://www.helenquinnpasin.com/certifications
Please note that this group is for girls only. Please be advised that we have a zero-tolerance policy for any disrespectful language and behavior and the facilitator has the right to ask you to leave and ban you from re-entering our groups.
Please note that we ask all participants to be on camera for the duration of the group, this is for all participants and the facilitators safety.
To sign up for event updates, inspiring stories, or to learn more about how &Rise empowers women please visit our website at www.womenrisechicago.org