Noticing the Good: Gratitude in Every Season

October is a natural time for reflection. The air feels a little crisper, classrooms a little busier, and gratitude seems to flow more easily. It’s the season that reminds us to notice the small things to be thankful for that often go unseen when our schedules fill and our energy runs low.

Gratitude is not simply the act of saying thank you, but a habit of noticing – of seeing the glass as half full, of recognizing the people, places, and moments that shape our busy days. When we nurture gratitude in ourselves and in the children we guide, we are teaching more than manners. We are shaping a mindset that helps us feel grounded, resilient, and capable of finding joy in ordinary moments.

In early learning, gratitude often looks like small, quiet acts: a child helping a friend zip up a coat, a teacher kneeling to listen at eye level, a supervisor who starts each meeting by naming one thing that went well that week. These moments teach children and adults that happiness isn’t about how much we have, but how deeply we notice what we often take for granted.

Gratitude and Motivation Go Hand in Hand

In recent years, much has been said about intrinsic motivation, the drive to do something because it feels meaningful, not because it earns a reward. The same principle applies to gratitude. When gratitude is genuine and self-driven, it strengthens internal motivation. A child who learns to say “thank you” because they truly feel appreciation begins to understand the deeper value of contribution and kindness.

Helping Gratitude Grow in Your Centre

Here are a few simple ways leaders can weave gratitude into daily routines:

• Begin staff meetings with a “moment of thanks” when each person names one highlight from their week.
• Create a “Gratitude Wall” or “Tree of Thanks” in your centre where children and educators can post notes of appreciation.
• End the day with reflective conversations: “What went well today?” and “Who helped make our day better?”
• Recognize the educators and staff who quietly uplift others, not only those whose efforts are most visible.

These small rituals don’t take much time, but they create a culture where everyone feels seen and valued. Gratitude, when practiced consistently, becomes a quiet thread that connects people and strengthens community.

A Note of Thanks from Sentient

At Sentient, we are deeply thankful for the educators and centre leaders who continue to make a difference, not only in October but every day of the year. Your work builds strong foundations for children and families across Ontario.

As you lead your teams through this busy season, I hope you find moments to pause and reflect on the impact you create. Gratitude grows best when it’s shared, and I would love to hear how you’re cultivating it in your centre.