Gratitude Tree is a collective, hands-on art activity that invites children and families to reflect on their relationship with the environment and express their appreciation for nature, and it’s happening at Down to Earth at Jameel Arts Centre.
At the start of the workshop, children are introduced to a large, bare tree installation. Each child is invited to create one or more colorful paper leaves for the tree. On the first leaf, they will write or draw what they love most about nature, whether it’s the ocean, trees, animals, or simply fresh air, and decorate it using markers, pencils, ribbons, and other materials. On the second leaf, they will write a personal pledge to help preserve the environment, guided by simple prompts from the instructor such as:
“I, (name), promise to recycle.”
“I promise to save water.”
“I promise to turn off the lights when I leave the room.”
Once complete, the children return their leaves to the tree, transforming it into a vibrant artwork full of gratitude, promises, and hopeful messages for the Earth.
The Gratitude Tree not only sparks creativity but also teaches children the value of individual responsibility and the power of collective action in caring for our planet. By the end, the once-bare tree blossoms into a symbol of community, commitment, and love for the environment.