I'm going old school with this one.
I think I bought this book about three schools ago. (Hang on ... yep, ©2002.)
But self-esteem never really gets old and we can't afford to let kids go through life not knowing how truly wonderful they are. As we think hard about planning for SEL and developing a growth mindset in children, this book deserves a place on the shelf.
Jamie Lee Curtis packs a lot into this little book (which is written in rhyme, so I recommend practicing it first). The text is perfect for launching conversations about:
• body positivity and self-acceptance
• individual expression of style
• healthy habits such as honesty, empathy, and gratitude
• being part of and contributing to a community of people
• persevering through obstacles, learning from failure
💛 And loving yourself.
It's a great go-to book for teachers, counselors, and parents. If we spend time talking to children about important emotional topics when they're young and super open-minded, they'll stand a better chance of caring deeply about themselves and others instead of struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, and apathy.
These are some questions I've asked my first graders:
1. Do you think the author has an important message she's trying to share? What do you think she wants us to learn? Why is that important?
2. Think about the "outside" of you. What is something you like about the way you look?
3. Now think about the "inside" of you. What special thing do you want your friends to know about your behavior or attitude? For example, maybe you're a person who keeps practicing to get better at something. Maybe you're a person who is very good at sharing your things with others. Maybe you're a person who is confident to try new things. Maybe you're a person who tells people nice things when they need cheering up.
Excerpt from the book:
I'm gonna like me
'cause I'm loved and I know it,
and liking myself
is the best way to show it.
...kind of sounds like a mantra to me.😉
Happy teaching!
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