Each month, students at Walter B. Howard Elementary learn a new happy habit that will not only help them academically, but will prepare them to succeed in life.
You may remember Stephen Covey’s bestselling book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, a self-help book for adults who want to achieve their personal best. His son Sean wrote a version for children called The 7 Habits of Happy Kids, from which the monthly habits are drawn.
Each month at the Tiger Jam assembly students are recognized for their accomplishments and in the past have focused on a different character each month, such as “respect.” This year students are learning a new happy habit each month ranging from “being proactive,” to “begin with the end in mind,” to “think win-win.”
Teachers incorporate the monthly habit into their daily interactions with students and report instances where students demonstrated this behavior. Students are acknowledged over the loud speaker and a monthly winner is named at the Tiger Jam assembly.
For example, one teacher reported a student being proactive by completing an assignment she missed while on vacation, without being asked to do so. Although she received an alternative assignment to complete while on the airplane, she took the initiative to complete the missed assignment on her own.
“We’re trying to build leadership in our school and in their community,” said Principal Andrew Kourt. “If you practice these habits you are likely to be a good, happy and healthy person, which we know correlates to doing better in school.”
October – Habit One – Be Proactive
I have a “can” attitude. I choose my actions, attitudes and moods. I don’t blame others. I do the right thing without being asked, even if nobody is looking
November – Habit Two – Begin with the end in mind
I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom. I look for ways to be a good citizen.
December – Habit Three – Put first things first
I spend my time on things that are most important. This means saying no to things I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule and follow my plan. I am organized.
January – Habit Four – Think win-win
I want everyone to be a success. I don’t have to put others down to get what I want. It makes me happy to see other people happy. I like to do nice things for others. When a conflict arises, I help brainstorm a solution. We all can win!
February – Habit Five – Seek first to understand
I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas.
March – Habit Six – Synergize
I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different from me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems. I know that “two heads are better than one.” I am a better person when I let other people into my life and work.
April – Habit Seven – Sharpen the saw
I take care of my body by eating right, exercising and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places.