Genuine Happiness Part 2 Deb Norris November 16, 2021

Signature Strengths Research has shown that happiness can be cultivated by finding and nurturing personal traits in children in our care and in ourselves. The second part of the Genuine Happiness starts with practical ways to increase "flow," the state of gratification that is entered when we and the children in our care feel completely engaged in what we are doing. Then a quick survey is offered for participants to identify their "Signature Strengths," personal character traits that have been universally celebrated across cultures and throughout time. After reflecting on the descriptions the discussion examines using Signature Strengths in daily life for ourselves and the child in our programs. The ambition of these presentations is to debunk "happiology" or hedonics, while gaining practical insight into becoming lastingly happy and raising children who seek gratifications over pleasures, have access to daily use of their signature strengths and can shift their emotional focus to be truly satisfied with themselves. The Two Goals 1. Discover your own and children's Signature Strengths. 2. Explore ways to use Signature Strengths consistently throughout the child care day for ourselves and with children.