S1: Exploring Happiness

The Secondary 1 youths started the lesson by exploring how people all want happiness and what gives them happiness. When asked "What is Happiness to you?", we received different kinds of responses such as friends, family, sports and doing well academically.

To let them think deeper, the youths watched a short film "Joy Story" and shared what they have learnt on Padlet. Furthermore, a Mentimeter Survey was conducted where the class shared their thoughts and experiences with one another.

These learning points from part 1 lesson creates a powerful support for the future topics of self-compassion, empathy, and compassion for others.

For the second part of the lesson, the Secondary 1 youths watched a video "Happiness" about the story of a rodent's unrelenting quest for happiness and fulfillment. From the video, we learned that while doing things to be happy, we sometimes end up hurting ourselves or others in the process. Additionally, sometimes we go through life quickly and things become part of a routine.

The youths then engaged in reflective practice on Padlet. They were asked to think and note down the following:

- Activities I Do that I Care About

- My Hopes and Dreams for this Year

- My Fears and Worries for this Year

Through this activity, we can see that our wish for happiness and to avoid distress plays a significant role in our lives.

Lastly, we watched "The Gratitude Experiment" to raise awareness about how being grateful helps our wellbeing. Studies say that showing gratitude makes a person happier and healthier. Consequently, the youths were asked to practise one act of showing gratitude within the week and share it with the rest next time.