PROSPER and Positivity

In 2023 a working group of staff and students conducted a comprehensive review of what wellbeing means to the AISHK community. As a result, an evidence-based framework PROSPER, anchored in positive psychology, was introduced.

PROSPER lays the foundation for how we live, learn and grow as a community, using a common language. We encourage families to incorporate some of the PROSPER principles into their daily lives.

Positivity: The Role of Family in Supporting Student Wellbeing

Positivity within a school setting often begins at home. The way families come together to reflect on daily experiences, both the joyful and the challenging, can significantly shape how young people process and grow from their day-to-day lives. Here are a few meaningful ways families can nurture a positive mindset:

1. ‎Guided Family Discussions

Creating space for open conversations, whether around the dinner table, during car rides to activities, or in other distraction-free moments can be incredibly powerful. Celebrating the positive moments of the day helps young people relive and reinforce those experiences. Equally important is the opportunity to talk through challenges. With the support of trusted adults, young people can begin to see difficulties as opportunities for learning and resilience, echoing the principles of Carol Dweck’s Growth Mindset.

1. 2. Gratitude Practices

   Establishing a daily or weekly gratitude ritual, such as journaling or sharing highlights during family time can help shift focus toward the positive. This simple yet impactful habit encourages young people to notice and appreciate the good in their lives, fostering a more optimistic and grounded outlook.

2. 3. Leisure and Creative Activities

   Encouraging participation in creative or physical activities provides essential outlets for expression and stress relief. Whether it’s painting, playing music, going for a walk, or engaging in sports, these mindful moments help release endorphins and support emotional wellbeing. Opportunities for letting go of negativity is just as vital as cultivating positivity.

By embedding these practices into daily life, families can play a pivotal role in nurturing a young person’s emotional resilience and overall wellbeing, laying a strong foundation for success both in and out of the classroom.