I need to change the thermostat on my 2001 pontiac grand am 2.4, need to find it as well as any tips on the changing of it would be great... thank you

First off, you must drain some or all of the coolant. Do not just dump it on the ground. This is hazardous materials and must be disposed of in accordance with strict guidelines.
Now, as to the thermostat.
Locate the top radiator hose and follow it to where it connects to the motor. There should be a cap held on by two or three bolts. Remove the bolts and gently pry it off. There is the Tstat. You will need to clean the gasket surface and reapply a new gasket, install the Tstat and replace the cover. Refill with fresh coolant to mfg specs and start it up. If you are not really mechanically inclined, then it is far better to pay a shop with the proper disposal equipment the small fee to do the job for you.