I Love Myself

Every child has times where they question themselves about how they look on the outside, how they play games, how they keep up with other kids and even question how good their art or schoolwork is. Imagine being able to tell yourself that you are good enough, and that you can love yourself no matter what.

This lovely children’s book leaves the narrative open for the reader and lots of room for discussion with a child on how to find the good in the different activities they do every day, to find joy in being by themselves and to be happy and even proud of just learning to ride a bike, even if you aren’t as fast as other kids is ok.

On one of the pages, the main character is “telling stories with crayons”, and I think that is a great starting point to encourage the reader to do the same. With whimsical illustrations (including a friendly imaginary creature), readers see children playing in the rain together, but inviting others to join in the fun while giving the message that, even if you fall in a puddle, you can pick yourself up and be happy in the moment that you jumped in!

No one is perfect, and I Love Myself gives so many scenarios to relate to, from setting boundaries (“I love myself when I say no”) to loving yourself when you feel emotions that are overwhelming or “big feelings”. It’s ok to not feel like smiling, or not be the best at something, and it’s just as ok to tell yourself to keep trying.

I would recommend I Love Myself for all children, but especially for those that are hard on themselves. This book is for the kids that feel ‘less than’ others when they should learn to love their individuality. We all have falls, and we all get up; we have to. I think children will find I Love Myself motivating, and parents and teachers can use each page to open dialogue and even suggest telling a story with a drawing.