Christine Carter, Ph.D. has helped thousands of parents find more joy in their parenting while raising happy, successful and resilient kids. Dr. Carter is the author of the book RAISING HAPPINESS: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents.

• Fostering GRATITUDE is one of the most effective roads to happiness
o People who consciously  practice gratitude feel better about their lives as a whole, are more optimistic about the future, and are 25% happier on average.
o Gratitude is a SKILL that needs to be taught and practiced, both in adults and children.
o Gratitude practices are simple, but one size doesn’t fit all.  It is important to pick a gratitude practice that is right for you.

• By GIVING to others.
o Both helping others and receiving help is associated with lowered anxiety and depression, but offering help tends to have a stronger effect
o Teens who identify their primary motive as helping others or contributing to society are three times happier than those who lack such motives.
o There is a clear cause-and-effect relationship between giving to others and good health: generousity boosts our immune system and reduces stess-related hormones in our bodies.

St. Mary’s Academy’s 18th Annual Food for Thought Tuition Assistance Luncheon, featuring a presentation on the science of happiness by keynote speaker Christine Carter, Ph.D.
When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 10. The social hour goes from 11-11:45, followed by the luncheon.
Where: Grand Ballroom at the Hilton Portland & Executive Tower, 921 S.W. Sixth Ave., in downtown Portland.
Information/Tickets: 503-721-7726, for more click here for more on St. Mary's click here.