How you can help your children build a sense of identity with one simple song!
Each day children are discovering more about their world and their place within it. In order to help them build a strong sense of identity, we warmly greet our children and let them know that we are so glad they are a part of our classroom community! This gentle entry time allows us to let our kids know that their presence is valued and gives us time to bond with each individual child. Building trusting and secure relationships are so important during their most formative years.Â
A Fun Song for Exploring Identity
Today, I visited a twos class and on the table, I noticed there was a big hand mirror…
I “hinted” to the teacher that I happened to know a fun song we could sing with this cool mirror. Â The teacher sweetly invited me to share the song with her class. Â I sang with the children first, then handed the mirror to the teacher. The teacher continued the song with her young students while I looked on.
Tune: Frere Jacques
I am Special
I am Special
Look at me!
Look at me!
I am very special.
I am very special.
Look at me,
Look at me!
Expanding on the Song
We changed the song up a bit and added different feeling words so the children could make different faces as they looked in the mirror (I am sad – I am happy – I am mad). It was a great way to explore emotions and so fun because the children would try to frown or look mad but when they looked into the mirror they could not help but give a big smile:) Too sweet!
Building Identity in the Classroom
Providing a safe space where children feel loved and accepted for who they are will set the foundation for a strong sense of identity later on. Stories and songs are a great way to model empathy and help children better understand themselves and others. Through play children can also become more confident and comfortable with who they are.
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Links to Grow On
See this adorable mirror and feelings game your preschooler will enjoy!