Gratitude Leaf Collage Craft

Nov 17

The Gratitude Leaf Collage Craft is a calming, reflective exercise designed to help adults slow down, reconnect with the present moment, and recognize the meaningful people, moments, and strengths in their lives. By combining simple fine-motor tasks with guided writing prompts, this activity encourages creative and emotional expression, mindfulness, and positive thinking. Whether completed individually or in a group, it offers a gentle way to build self-awareness, reduce stress, and create a visual reminder of the things that bring comfort, hope, and gratitude.

Instructions

1. Print the leaf worksheet

Use regular paper or cardstock for durability. The printable page includes 12 colored leaves, each with writing lines.

2. Prepare your materials

You’ll need:
• Printed leaf page
• Pen or marker
• Scissors
• Glue stick or tape
• A larger sheet of paper, poster board, or a notebook page
• Magazines, newspapers, or other collage materials

3. Cut out the leaves

Carefully cut around each leaf shape.

4. Choose your writing prompts

Pick prompts from the provided list—or select your own. Each leaf represents one idea, reflection, or gratitude statement.

Examples:

“Today I am grateful for…”
“A small victory this week…”
“Someone who supported me…”
“Something that brought me comfort…”

5. Write one answer on each leaf

Use the two lines inside each leaf to write a short phrase, memory, or reflection. Try to write concise but meaningful entries.

6. Create your collage

Arrange your finished leaves on a blank sheet, poster board, or notebook paper. You can:
• Make a wreath
• Form a falling-leaf pattern
• Cluster them in a gratitude “tree”
• Create a journal spread
• Incorporate bits that provide additional visual interest or are related from magazine clippings, etc.
Glue or tape them in place once you’re satisfied with the layout.

7. Reflect and review

Take a moment to read your leaves aloud or silently. Notice themes like:
• Sources of strength
• Daily joys
• Supportive people
• Achievements or progress
This step builds emotional awareness and reinforces positive thinking patterns.

8. Display or store your completed collage

Hang it somewhere visible (therapy space, bedroom, fridge) or place it inside a journal for ongoing reflection.