About This Lesson
Science shows there are six elements of wellbeing, known as PERMA+: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Mattering, Accomplishment, and +Health, and the beginning of the school year is the perfect time to integrate regular wellbeing check-ins into classroom routines.
By reflecting on each PERMA+ element, students can set meaningful goals and build happiness resources necessary for strengthening their resilience and confidence in achieving lasting positive change.
In this activity, students will explore the PERMA+ wellbeing model by spotlighting one area each week, sharing personal experiences, and completing simple family or classroom activities to strengthen positive habits.
Here’s what you’ll get:
- Printable PERMA+ Spotlight Activity Sheet with weekly prompts
- Ideas for family-friendly activities under each PERMA+ element
- Space to add your own creative activities and reflections
- Six weeks of low-prep, science-based wellbeing practice
- Links to additional free resources for deeper exploration
Why you’ll love this activity:
- The activity is easy to customize in your classroom or at home
- You can use this resource as part of a comprehensive, science-based unit study
- The associated free unit study for PERMA+ Snapshot comes with activities, downloadable worksheets, and even IEP and BIP recommendations tailored specifically to students with autism
- Builds a habit of focusing on wellbeing throughout the term or school year
Ways to Use
- Weekly SEL lessons or homeroom check-ins
- Family engagement take-home activity
- Counseling sessions to build self-awareness and coping skills
- Classroom community-building exercises
- After-school programs, advisory periods, or youth groups
What is PERMA+?
The founder of Positive Psychology, Martin Seligman, explains there are several elements critical to human flourishing: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishments (PERMA+). We believe in the mind-body connection and have added +Health to reflect that physical health is a vital element of wellbeing. By learning the science and skills related to each element, you can take control of your wellbeing and drive your life toward a flourishing future!
Science of PERMA+
People who track their PERMA+ Snapshot are more likely to practice the skills of wellbeing that lead to:
- More resilience in times of challenge & stress
- Higher levels of satisfaction with work & their career
- Deeper and more meaningful relationships
- Increased social support
- Greater meaning in their community & day-to-day lives
- Increased performance and higher achievement
- Better sleep quality
- Less depression and anxiety
Looking for more PERMA+ resources?
Explore the free PERMA+ Snapshot Unit Study, which comes with teaching slides, additional worksheets and activities, and even IEP and BIP recommendations tailored specifically to students with autism.Proof Positive's resources are and will always be free. Be well!
Bonus access to full lesson plans and unit studies on the skills of happiness at our Skill Center.
