DIY Gratefulness Tree Tutorial

My original tree, using paper leaves.
My original tree, using paper leaves.

Have you ever heard the saying, “take time to stop and smell the roses?” With the hustle and bustle of daily life, this can be easier said than done! However, according to several studies, being intentional about gratitude can benefit you both physically and mentally. A Gratefulness Tree is a fun and creative way to help you be more intentional about the what you are grateful for.

I learned this project many years ago and I keep the first rendition (pictured on the right) which was really simplistic in my office as a constant visual reminder to count my blessings. The four H’s of 4-H, Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, are incorporated into this project, so consider this for a future 4-H club meeting activity as well!

These are the supplies you will need to create your tree.
These are the supplies you will need to create your tree.

Items needed for this project: Small branch(es) with leaves removed, vessel of choice, foam, sand, or soil to stabilize branches, pebbles for additional weight and stability, needle and thread to hang the leaves, leaf pattern and colorful paper, or purchased leaves. You will also need a gel pen or superfine marker to write on leaves, rubber bands, tape, and decorative seasonal napkins or florists’ moss to the base of the tree.

Even though this DIY project is presented in the month of November, this project can be done at any time during the year. On Thanksgiving Day or any designated day, have each family/club member and guest take a leaf off of the tree to read out loud.

Use tissue paper or florists' foam to secure the branched in your decorative container.
Use tissue paper or florists’ foam to secure the branched in your decorative container.

The comings and goings of our daily lives can consume us at times. It can become easy to focus on the negatives or challenges we face because they cause of some sort of discomfort and forget to think of those things or people that bring joy and comfort to our lives. I hope this intentional project on gratefulness helps us all to “smell the roses” more often.

What do some of my leaves say? Well, here are a few examples of the things I am grateful for; food, good friends, willingness to forgive, sight, faith, family, and shelter. I will display the newest tree (pictured on the left) in my home and just like my first one it will gain more leaves over time.

Use a gel pen to write what you are thankful for on each leaf
Use a gel pen to write what you are thankful for on each leaf
Use decorative napkins, fabric, or even florists' moss to cover the base of the tree.
Use decorative napkins, fabric, or even florists’ moss to cover the base of the tree.
This is what your Gratefulness Tree will look like when you are done.
This is what your Gratefulness Tree will look like when you are done.
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by Yolanda
Posted: November 23, 2016

Category: 4-H & Youth
Tags: 4-H Club Group Activities, Emotional Health, Gratefulness, Panhandle 4-H, Parent Resources, Thanksgiving

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