What's So Important About Identity?

Understanding one's identity is a fundamental cornerstone of mental wellness. That's why we introduced the 40 I Ams and a practical tool to incorporate them into your daily routine with your kids. Almost every issue, be it for children or adults, can be traced back to questions of identity. But why did we start here? Here are a few things you try with your kids this week!

Journals: Create identity journals for you and your child. Each day, spend a few minutes together discussing one of the 40 I Ams and how it relates to your child's life. Encourage your child to write or draw their thoughts and feelings about the statements. This activity fosters self-awareness and allows your child to explore their unique qualities and strengths.

Vision Boards: Look over a few of the 40 I Am Statements. Gather magazines, newspapers, and art supplies. Sit with your child and create a Vision Board together. Cut out images, words, or phrases that resonate with your child's identity and aspirations. Encourage them to be creative and select items that reflect who they are and want to become. This visual representation can serve as a daily reminder of their identity.

Storytelling: Spend quality time with your child by sharing stories from your family's history. Talk about your experiences, challenges, and achievements, emphasizing how your identity shaped your life. Then, let your child share their stories, dreams, and aspirations. This storytelling activity helps children connect with their roots and envision a bright future based on their unique identity.

These activities strengthen the parent-child bond and provide valuable opportunities for kids to explore their identities in a supportive and nurturing environment. By focusing on identity, you're helping your child build a solid foundation for mental wellness and personal growth.