Letting happiness flourish

Should students' happiness be a primary goal for schools?  Of course!  We can't guarantee happiness every minute for every child, but a general feeling of happiness is what makes it possible for children to be the most effective learners.

Jessica Lahey in her NY Times Education article, says that by modelling behaviors that make us happier, healthier and more productive, we can cultivate those qualities in children.  We should:

Live in the moment
Model resilience
Manage our energy
Do nothing (take the time to relax)
Be kind to ourselves
Be kind to others

Happiness is the native habitat of children - just watch their exuberance when given the chance!  Joy should not be a surprise in school.  It's our job as the adults who manage children's environments to be the models and to make sure we lay the groundwork for interest, excitement, engagement, discovery and compassion to blossom.