Happy to Be Me
While discussing how people are similar and how people are different from each other, your child can begin to see that he is unique. Your child will communicate what makes him special by making a handprint drawing.
Learning Area(s): Language and Communication; Social and Emotional
MATERIALS
- Construction paper or cardstock
- Markers
LET'S PLAY
Have your child place his hand on the construction paper. Trace your child’s hand carefully.
Next, ask your child to name five special things about himself. For example, your child might say, “I have blue eyes” or “I can play soccer.” You might need to provide one or two examples to help your child understand. Try to include some positive aspects of your child’s skills or personality, rather than just his physical features.
As he lists each thing, write them inside each finger of the handprint. If desired, your child can color them in or add small pictures.
As you work on this activity, talk to your child about how he is unique and has similarities with, and differences from, other people.
TIPS
- A song that goes well with this activity is:
“In this whole wide world (make a circle with two arms)
I can clearly see (put fingers around your eyes, and look through them)
There is only one of you (point to another person)
And there is only one of me (point to yourself).”
- You can make this a family activity by having each family member make his or her hand tracing and list of special qualities, then talk about how you are all similar in some ways and different in others.
- Children love to see that their artwork and other creations are valued. Inexpensive picture frames can be found at dollar stores and discount stores, and you can frame and display your child’s hand tracing or other creative work.
