Love Your Amazing Self: Joyful Verses for Young Voices (-)
What’s inside...
Ofosu Jones-Quartey, a meditation teacher and hip-hop musician, uses empowering lyrical verse to provide a unique entry point to mindfulness and self-empowerment for kids ages 7 and up in his book Love Your Amazing Self. Accompanied by vibrant illustrations by Ndubisi Okoye, each verse carries themes such as being true to oneself, finding personal magic, and standing up for kindness, which encourage kids to affirm the positive in themselves and their lives. Short reflections and activities accompanying each verse help kids strengthen their self-confidence and bring greater joy to themselves and others.
Discussion points
What are some ways you can show love to yourself?
Can you think of a time when you felt really proud of yourself? What did you do?
What does it mean to be kind to others? Can you give an example?
How do you feel when someone is kind to you?
What are some things you are grateful for in your life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts as they relate to the book’s themes. Validate their feelings and share your own experiences related to self-love and kindness. This not only helps in bonding but also in understanding the emotional depth of your child. Use examples from the book to relate to everyday situations that your child might encounter, making the book's lessons more tangible and applicable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Through its joyful verses, the book encourages children to embrace their unique qualities and characteristics.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing their own strengths and abilities, boosting their confidence in everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Respect for others
Explanation: The book promotes understanding and respecting differences, showcasing how diversity enhances our lives.
Real-World Application: This can foster empathy and inclusivity in children as they interact with peers from diverse backgrounds at school or in the playground.
Example Lesson: The importance of positivity
Explanation: With its uplifting tone, the book teaches children the power of maintaining a positive outlook on life.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to cope with challenges and setbacks by focusing on positive aspects and solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
Example Lesson: Expressing joy
Explanation: The verses illustrate the importance of expressing happiness and joy openly.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to communicate their emotions more effectively, sharing their happiness with others and enriching their social interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of self-expression
Explanation: Encouraging children to discover and use their voices creatively, the book highlights the significance of individual expression.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to engage in creative activities like drawing, writing, or singing, helping them to articulate their thoughts and feelings more clearly.