I start my Grade 8 Health class with a mini-unit (usually about 2 weeks) introducing ideas from positive psychology. The unit is called “Happiness Hacks” and the message is that there are evidence-based strategies that are known to increase positive emotions and improve well-being. 

We learn about ‘happiness chemicals’ dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins and have a Daily D.O.S.E project where students have to select and practice an action for happiness every day for two weeks. Later they reflect on what types of activities best work for them. 

Alternatively, sometimes I have focused more on the altruistic side of happiness by creating a “Spread the Happiness” challenge, where students have to think about and plan something kind to do for someone else. I’ve had students surprising their parents by cooking them breakfast, calling a grandparent, or planning a game night with younger siblings. I have also run a “Random Acts of Kindness” club for students to spread kind and positive actions around the school. 

Below you will find the following project resources: Daily D.O.S.E Student task sheet with reflection questions, Daily D.O.S.E calendar in printable and digital versions, and Spread the Happiness challenge.

Try it with your class and let me know how it goes!