Gratitude is more than just a pleasant feeling; it is a powerful tool that strengthens mental health, enhances social skills, and promotes overall well-being, particularly in children. At Maryvale, Los Angeles’ oldest children’s charity, we have seen firsthand the profound impact that gratitude can have on the children and families we support.
Gratitude can make a real difference in children’s lives, and Maryvale’s programs are vital to fostering this development. From our residential treatment services to our family resource center, we help children and families build the skills to lead more fulfilling lives. Incorporating gratitude into daily routines can improve a child’s outlook, helping them develop empathy, resilience, and better relationships with their peers. It’s an essential part of the healing process for the children in our care.
Gratitude’s Mental Health Benefits for Children
Numerous studies have shown that practicing gratitude can significantly improve children’s mental health. Regularly expressing gratitude can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety while increasing overall feelings of well-being. According to an article published by the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), children who practice gratitude report higher levels of happiness and fewer negative emotions.
At Maryvale, this is why our mental health services integrate gratitude exercises into therapy sessions. This approach helps children develop a positive mindset, which is especially beneficial for those coping with trauma or adversity. By fostering an attitude of gratitude, we aim to provide a stable foundation for mental health, which is crucial for healthy development.
Enhancing Social Skills Through Gratitude
Gratitude also plays a crucial role in the development of social skills. Children who regularly practice gratitude are likelier to be empathetic, socially engaged, and cooperative. Grateful children often exhibit pro-social behaviors, such as helping others, and are more likely to form positive peer relationships.
At Maryvale, we incorporate gratitude practices to foster the development of social skills. Our early education and after-school programs encourage children to practice gratitude through group activities, storytelling, and reflective exercises. By promoting gratitude, we are helping children develop the social skills to build strong, supportive relationships.
Maryvale's Commitment to Gratitude
Maryvale has a rich history of serving the needs of children and families since 1856. Our founders believed in the power of community and the importance of giving back—values that continue to guide our work today. Gratitude is a cornerstone of our approach, and we strive to instill this value in the children and families we support.
At Maryvale, we understand that gratitude fosters resilience, builds stronger relationships, and enhances emotional well-being. By teaching children to focus on the positive aspects of their lives, we help them develop a sense of hope and empowerment. Whether through our early education programs, where children learn to express gratitude daily, or our mental health services, where gratitude exercises are part of the healing process, we integrate this value into every aspect of our work.
Programs and Services
Maryvale offers a variety of programs and services to support children and families in need. Our early education centers provide nurturing environments where young children can learn and grow. Our community-based services offer mental health support, wraparound services, and short-term transitional housing for various populations in need.
- Early Education: Our early education centers in Rosemead, Duarte, and South El Monte create stimulating learning environments where children are encouraged to express gratitude daily. Activities like gratitude journals and thank-you note writing help children recognize and appreciate the positive aspects of their lives.
- Mental Health Services: Our mental health services incorporate gratitude exercises into therapy, helping children and families build resilience and foster emotional well-being.
- Wraparound Services: Our wraparound services support families, ensuring they have the resources to thrive. Gratitude is integral to our approach, helping families focus on their strengths and the positive aspects of their lives.
The Role of Donations and Funding
Maryvale relies on donations and funding to sustain its programs and services. The generosity of our donors and supporters enables us to provide essential services such as early education, mental health support, and housing assistance.
Every donation, whether large or small, directly impacts the lives of those we support, allowing us to expand our reach and improve the quality of our programs. Your support is vital in helping us continue offering life-changing services that make a lasting difference in our community.
Gratitude is a powerful tool that enhances a child’s mental health and social skills. At Maryvale, we incorporate gratitude into every aspect of our work, from early education to mental health services. Our history, values, and programs are centered around giving thanks and giving back.
Your support is crucial in sustaining our mission and making a difference in the lives of children and families in need. We invite you to donate, volunteer, or participate in our events. Together, we can create a brighter, more grateful future for the children and families we support.
For more information about Maryvale and our services, please visit our website
