For the Classroom

Positivity

Choosing words and actions that inspire hope and forward momentum

Positivity helps schools maintain hope and motivation.

When educators choose encouraging attitudes, students feel inspired and capable. Positivity creates a climate where growth is celebrated.

Essay

The Impact of Positivity on Teachers and Their Students

By Sandra Szczygiel, MS, LPCC-S

Positivity/Positive Thinking is backed by science. The way you think directly influences your mental state, your physical health, and even the success you achieve in life.

Positivity rewires the brain. Our brains are adaptable based on experience and thought patterns, which is called neuroplasticity. When we practice positive thinking the brain strengthens neural pathways associated with joy and contentment. It decreases the activation of brain regions linked to fear and anxiety. Positive thoughts trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin, which not only improve mood but also enhance cognitive flexibility, which helps you solve problems and make better decisions.

The physical benefits of positivity include stronger immune function, lower cortisol levels (which reduces inflammation and improves sleep quality), and better cardiovascular health. The psychological Impact of positivity includes enhanced resilience, enhanced self-esteem, and confidence. The social and relationship benefits include improved communication and empathy.

Positivity can be strengthened by practicing daily gratitude, reframing negative thoughts, surrounding yourself with positivity (limiting time with negative people, following uplifting social media, engaging with motivational content daily), utilizing visualization techniques, meditating, and practicing mindfulness.

A teacher’s positivity has beneficial impacts on the classroom. Classroom environment is one of the most important factors affecting student learning. Students learn better when they view the learning environment as positive and supportive. Positivity is contagious – when one person demonstrates a positive attitude, others in the group are more likely to mirror it.

This month, how will you strengthen your Positivity in the classroom?

References:

Toward Self-Care, The Science Behind Positive Thinking & How it Affects Your Life, April 9, 2025, Bloom

Fizzics Education, Power of Positivity in the Classroom

Affirmations for the Classroom

I start my day with a happy heart.
I see little joys and let them make me smile.
I believe good things can happen.
I can find something good in every day.
I can turn a problem into a new idea.

Positivity Resource Library

The Links below will take you to Resources like activities, lessons, reflections, tools, and visuals you can use in the classroom or in homeschool to teach the Character Quality of Positivity.

Featured

Reading List Roundup: Positivity Picture Books

A curated reading list for teaching Positivity—plus a printable download and a link to the full Positivity bookshelf on Goodreads.

Positivity as a Core Value

Descriptions of Punctuality as a Core Value and how the other qualities support it.

Positivity as a Sidekick Quality

Descriptions of how Positivity supports the other qualities.

Fun with Character: Focus

Using the "Focus Game," this activity teaches students how our brains filter information and why what we choose to notice matters. By searching for specific shapes and colors, children learn that focusing on the positive helps them see more opportunities for kindness and joy throughout their day.

Fun with Character: Blow Away The Grumpies

Using simple bubbles, this meditative activity helps students visualize letting go of negative thoughts. By "blowing their grumpies" into bubbles and watching them float away, children learn a practical mindfulness tool to stay positive and clear their minds of self-doubt.

Fun with Character: Float Your Boat

Using clay and water, this hands-on activity demonstrates how "opening up" to others can keep us afloat during tough times. Students will explore the difference between feeling weighed down by discouragement and finding Resilience through community, help, and a positive mindset.

Picture Book Pick: The Energy Bus for Kids: A Story About Staying Positive and Overcoming Challenges

A featured Positivity picture book—The Energy Bus for Kids—with a read-along link and ready-to-use classroom discussion questions.

No Matter How You Say It: Positivity

A quick language-and-meaning snapshot of Positivity, showing the word origins, sign language, and common idioms anyone can discuss.

Positivity Quotes

Looking for reminders that Positivity makes a difference? Explore the full collection of Positivity Quotes and find the perfect line to share, post, or spark a conversation.

Quotes

Celebrate Character Qualities All Month

Use the holidays this month to celebrate our other qualities.

Featured

Juneteenth Activity

A simple Juneteenth activity.

June Character All Month

A list of classic and quirky holidays in June and their connection to a variety of character qualities.

Summersgiving

A simple Summersgiving activity.

Build Community in Your Classroom

Try these activities!

Featured

Getting to Know You: Fortunately, Unfortunately

This lighthearted Team Building activity uses stories to encourage people to express their identity and values in a fun, creative way—boosting connection, conversation, and a sense of belonging within any group or organization. Spark fun dialogue and collaboration, and help participants practice quick thinking, positive interaction, and group energy.

Getting to Know You: Read All About it!

This lighthearted Team Building activity uses paper to encourage people to express their identity and values in a fun, creative way—boosting connection, conversation, and a sense of belonging within any group or organization. Spark fun dialogue and collaboration, and help participants practice quick thinking, positive interaction, and group energy.

Positivity

Choosing words and actions that inspire hope and forward momentum

Positivity helps schools maintain hope and motivation.

The Impact of Positivity on Teachers and Their Students

This month, how will you strengthen your Positivity in the classroom?

Affirmations for the Classroom

Positivity Resource Library

Positivity Quotes

Celebrate Character Qualities All Month

Build Community in Your Classroom

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