Objective: To help students understand why noticing positive experiences matters for mental well-being. This activity introduces the concept of the brain’s “negativity bias” (our tendency to focus on problems) and shows how writing down good moments can train the brain to notice positives and reduce stress.
Instructions:
1. Explain the purpose: “Our brains naturally pay more attention to problems than good things—this is called negativity bias. Simply said, our brain can sabotage us by focusing too much on the negative. It helped humans survive, but today it can make us feel stressed. Writing down positive moments helps balance this bias and improves mood.”
2. Give each student two sticky notes.
3. On the first note, write one small positive moment from today (e.g., laughing with a friend, enjoying a snack, hearing a favorite song).
4. On the second note, write one positive moment from yesterday or earlier this week.
5. Encourage details: “What happened? Where were you? Who was there?”
6. Invite students to stick both notes on a designated space in the classroom to create a Joy Wall.
7. Explain: “Every time we look at this wall, we remind our brain that good things happen every day.”
Reflection Questions:
1. How did writing the moments down make you feel?
2. Did remembering these moments change your mood?
3. Why do you think noticing good moments can help us handle stress?
4. Would you use this strategy outside of school?