Cassi Koepp
I Am Unique, I Am Beautiful, I am Me!
Preparing children to be unique individuals can be quite trying at times. Children strive on being like one another in everyway possible. What I find the most beautiful thing in a human being is their ability to stand out from the rest of the world, and be who they are truely meant to be.
All About Me Theme
My son has Autism and ADHD, he has such a creative imagination that sets him apart from everyone his age. His "uniqueness" causes children to view him as odd at times. With him, I have learned to teach children to embrace who they are, and be who they want to be.
Our family song is "This is Me" from the Greatest Showman (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rj4Yu9Utdw0) ! It sends such a good message out to love ourselves.
A song that I like to hear in the classrooms is "I Love My Body" (lyrics are attached (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bh4UFh2I8e8). Children need to learn early to be happy with who they are physically, mentally, emotionally. I myself, am still learning this.
A good activity to introduce to children in ECE is an "All About Me" unit. I point out the differences in children, and make them SHINE! Creating worksheets and booklets are incredible ways to include the child's family invovment as well as a way to get to know the child and their families!
One of my teachers is creating "All About Me" books with her class! I am so proud that she is starting this will 1 year olds!