“An entire sea of water can’t sink a ship unless it gets inside the ship. Similarly, the negativity of the world can’t put you down unless you allow it to get inside you.” – Goi Nasu

Younger students can become discouraged when things don’t work out right away. This week’s Think Positive lesson highlights how positive thinking shapes our experiences and helps us view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures. By practicing optimism, students develop flexibility, courage, and stronger problem-solving skills.

We’ll introduce the idea that thinking positively is a key part of the Everything Is Possible Mindset. A positive outlook makes our days brighter and helps us keep moving toward our dreams, even when the road gets bumpy. For example, when a math problem is especially tricky or a science experiment doesn’t turn out as expected, they can practice finding something uplifting in the situation rather than letting it define the whole day.

Middle and high schoolers often criticize themselves and may feel defeated when trying new or risky things. This lesson encourages them to see challenges as stepping stones. We’ll remind them that comparison steals joy, and that each dream is unique and valuable. With practice, students can learn to replace negative thoughts with more hopeful ones, which strengthens persistence and self-belief.

We’ll also connect positivity to well-being. Techniques such as deep breathing, positive self-talk, and reframing setbacks reduce stress and help students manage relationships, responsibilities, and emotions better. Ultimately, this lesson shows how a positive mindset supports personal growth and makes the pursuit of dreams more sustainable and joyful.

Mindset Mondays will be offered every Monday that school is in session. This year, we are working through Course 2, continuing our journey through the 7 Mindsets curriculum. One of my favorite things about the 7 Mindsets is that it continues to provide new and different information each year. I look forward to seeing your students as we explore the Everything is Possible mindset together!

Mindset Mondays are taught on Zoom each Monday that school is in session. Zoom links are provided below, available on the Event Calendar in the Nest, and through your student’s Clever dashboard.

You will find the class times below. Classes are arranged by grade levels as follows:

Grades K-2: 9:30 am Zoom Link

Grades 3-5: 10:30 am Zoom Link

Grades 6-12: 11:30 am Zoom Link

The lessons are approximately 45 minutes long and designed to be interactive group lessons; however, because we recognize the importance of students attending comfortably, each student may choose their level of participation in the lesson.

Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you. – Mary Lou Retton

Each lesson includes an engaging slideshow, video, and activity. Click on the link that matches your student’s age or grade. You’ll find a fun icebreaker, a video lesson, and some discussion questions you can use to invite your students into conversation. There’s also an activity to bring the idea alive in your student’s life. Have fun connecting and learning that Everything is Possible!

Grades: K-2
Grades: 3-5
Grades: Middle School
Grades: High School

Mindful Moments are Back!

This year, I’m excited to offer Mindful Moments classes in person a few times each month! Just like last year, we’ll enjoy mindful movement together—but this year, we’ll also be incorporating games, music, fitness and stretching, and other fun activities to help us move, connect, and recharge. All Cottonwood students are welcome to join, and parents are encouraged to jump in, too!

Stay Tuned for Upcoming Mindful Moments in October!

Classes are open to all grade levels. If your student is in the younger grades, please plan to support their participation as needed. A few mats will be available to borrow, though students are encouraged to bring their own, along with water and comfortable movement attire.

Check the Cottonwood Chronicle for future park days where we will have Mindful Moments. You can find all the Park Day Schedules on the Nest in the Family Liaisons section.
No registration required—just come as you are!

• These Big Life Journal printable activities, purchased by Cottonwood for your students, offer additional opportunities to extend learning as students focus on learning more about becoming aware of their emotions and continuing their exploration of Everything is Possible!

Big Life Journal Activity: Believe in Yourself
Big Life Journal Teen Activity: Think Positive

This month, we’re introducing Analog Bags — tech-free collections of simple activities you can create at home to spark joy, creativity, and connection. Many of our teachers and staff are making their own, and we invite families to join in, too! Analog Bags are an easy way to encourage reflection, problem-solving, and screen-free presence for all ages.

The Let Grow Experience empowers students to build independence and confidence through monthly challenges. Each month, we share a new opportunity for families to explore together, helping students develop important life skills.

September’s project is all about stretching independence. Students are encouraged to try something new on their own—big or small—that helps them step outside their comfort zone. For younger kids, it might be chalk art or making lunch. By first or second grade, it could be walking to a friend’s house or playing at the park. As they grow, the challenges can too—like shopping for ingredients and baking a cake. Each step toward independence builds confidence and growth!

You can find more information and resources on the Parent Nest!

Email SELF@cottonwoodk12.org for submissions and questions.