Objective:

Inspired by Challenge to Change's newest children's book, Molly's Path: Building Hope and Resilience for a Bright Future.

Students will be able to identify and articulate personal aspirations, positive thoughts, and sources of hope by creating a "Hope Jar," a personalized container filled with written expressions of their goals, dreams, and uplifting affirmations. Through this activity, students will cultivate a positive mindset, enhance their emotional well-being, and develop a tangible resource for encouragement during challenging times.

The Hope Jar activity not only serves as a positive outlet for children to express themselves but also fosters important life skills such as goal setting, gratitude, and resilience. By regularly adding to their Hope Jar and reflecting on its contents, children can develop a sense of optimism and agency in shaping their own future. This activity can also be adapted to different age groups and settings, making it a versatile tool for parents, teachers, and caregivers to support children's emotional well-being and personal growth. Overall, the Hope Jar activity is a valuable resource for nurturing hope and positivity in children, helping them navigate life's challenges with resilience and optimism.

Materials

• A jar (mason jar, plastic jar, or any container with a lid)
• Small slips of paper or sticky notes
• Markers, pens, or pencils
• Stickers, ribbon, glitter, or any decorations for the jar
• Optional: Colored paper, crayons, or colored pencils for drawing