Celebrating International Day of Happiness

March 20 is the International Day of Happiness, a global celebration established by the United Nations to recognize the importance of happiness and well-being in people’s lives around the world. As we move into spring—a season of growth and renewal—it’s the perfect time to reflect on what happiness means for our children and families.

What Is Happiness?

Happiness is not constant cheerfulness or the absence of stress. Rather, it is:

• A sense of well-being and contentment
• Feeling connected and valued
• Experiencing purpose and meaning
• Having the ability to experience the full range of emotions in healthy ways

True happiness includes resilience—the ability to manage disappointment, frustration, and stress while still feeling hopeful and supported.

What Does a Happy, Healthy Child Look Like?

Happiness looks different at every age. Here are some age-appropriate indicators to help guide parents:

Kindergarten - Grade 2

Signs of healthy happiness:

• Eager to play and explore
• Shows curiosity and imagination
• Expresses emotions openly
• Seeks comfort from trusted adults

Parent Tip: Young children thrive on routine, warmth, and praise. Notice and name their positive behaviors: “I love how kind you were to your friend.”

Grades 3 - 5

Signs of healthy happiness:

• Maintains friendships
• Shows pride in accomplishments
• Demonstrates empathy
• Engages in hobbies or interests

Parent Tip: Encourage effort over perfection. Celebrate progress and persistence rather than just results.

Middle School (Grades 6 - 8)

Signs of healthy happiness:

• Developing identity and interests
• Has at least one trusted friend
• Can talk about feelings (even if reluctantly!)
• Participates in activities

Parent Tip: Listen more than you lecture. Middle schoolers need validation: “That sounds really frustrating. I can see why you’d feel that way.”

High School (Grades 9 - 12)

Signs of healthy happiness:

• Sets goals and shows motivation
• Maintains supportive peer relationships
• Demonstrates growing independence
• Balances responsibilities with downtime

Parent Tip: Support autonomy while staying connected. Ask open-ended questions like, “What’s been the best part of your week?”

Creating Small Moments That Build Big Happiness

Happiness doesn’t require grand vacations or expensive outings. Small, consistent moments matter most.

Try these simple ideas:

• Five-Minute Check-Ins: Undistracted daily conversation time.
• Gratitude at Dinner: Each person shares one positive moment from the day.
• Tech-Free Windows: Unplug during meals or before bedtime.
• Family Rituals: Friday pizza night, Sunday walks, or bedtime stories (even for teens—just in a different form!).
• Notes of Encouragement: A sticky note in a lunchbox or on a mirror.

Research consistently shows that connection—not perfection—builds lasting happiness.

Monitoring Your Own Happiness as a Parent

Children learn emotional regulation by watching the adults around them. It’s important for parents to reflect on their own well-being.

Ask yourself:

• Am I getting enough rest?
• Do I have someone I can talk to?
• Am I modeling healthy coping skills?
• Do I allow myself moments of joy?

Ways to Combat Stress with a Happiness Mindset:

• Practice realistic gratitude: Notice small wins.
• Set boundaries: It’s okay to say no.
• Move your body: Even a short walk can reset your mood.
• Pause before reacting: Respond, don’t react.
• Reframe challenges: Ask, “What is this teaching me?”

And most importantly:
It is completely normal to feel stressed, overwhelmed, or frustrated. Happiness is not about ignoring difficult emotions. It is about acknowledging them, validating them, and choosing healthy ways to move forward.

A Final Thought for March

This International Day of Happiness, let’s remember:

• Happiness is built in everyday moments.
• Emotional health includes the full range of feelings.
• Connection is the strongest predictor of well-being.
• Small intentional acts create lasting impact.

If you ever have concerns about your child’s emotional well-being, please reach out to your school counseling team. We are here to partner with you in supporting every student’s growth, resilience, and happiness.

Wishing your family a joyful and meaningful March!