Teaching Kids to Celebrate Their Uniqueness: Lessons from Just Because I Am

In a world that often emphasizes conformity, children need to understand and celebrate their unique qualities. Just Because I Am by Jannamie Coburn offers a powerful and heartfelt message that encourages kids to embrace who they are—flaws, strengths, and all. Through its rhythmic verses and uplifting narrative, this book not only offers an engaging reading experience but also serves as a vital tool for parents, educators, and caregivers to foster children’s self-confidence and emotional resilience.

This blog explores how Just Because I Am can foster self-love in children, offering practical suggestions for parents and educators to build confidence, encourage emotional expression, and reinforce the importance of individuality.

Understanding the Power of Self-Identity

The core of Just Because I Am is the celebration of self-identity. Through simple yet profound lines, the book takes readers on a journey in which the protagonist, Eboni-James, proudly declares her identity across various aspects of life. Whether it’s being biracial, small, a girl, or someone who enjoys both adventure and quiet moments, Eboni-James stands firm in her uniqueness. Each statement helps children recognize that who they are—no matter their gender, background, or personality traits—makes them special.

For parents and educators, these lessons offer a meaningful starting point for discussions about self-esteem. It encourages young readers to embrace their identity rather than compare themselves to others. In a world where external pressures often shape how kids see themselves, books like Just Because I Am provide a safe space to counteract negativity and instead empower children to see their inherent value.

Building Confidence: Teaching Children to Love Themselves

Self-confidence isn’t just about being proud of your strengths—it’s also about acknowledging and accepting your emotions, both the happy and sad ones. Eboni-James teaches young readers that it’s okay to be strong, to express frustration, to cry, and to feel joy all at once. This message is essential, especially in a society that often teaches children to suppress their feelings in the name of “being tough” or “looking perfect.”

Here are a few ways parents and educators can use Just Because I Am to build confidence in children:

1- Highlight Individual Strengths and Challenges

After reading the book, parents can lead a discussion about the unique qualities children possess. Ask questions like, “What makes you special?” or “What are some things you love about yourself?” Encouraging children to recognize their strengths—whether physical, emotional, or intellectual—instills a sense of pride. It’s equally important to discuss challenges. Learning to talk about weaknesses in a safe, non-judgmental way can help children understand that everyone has areas for growth, and that’s perfectly fine.

2- Practice Positive Affirmations

Incorporate affirmations into daily routines. The book’s verses can inspire these: “I am adventurous,” “I am brave,” or “I am expressive.” These affirmations, when said aloud regularly, can help kids internalize the positive messages and feel more confident in their uniqueness. For example, a parent might say, “You’re such an adventurous spirit! What’s something new you want to try today?”

3- Use Art or Journaling to Explore Identity

Creativity allows children to express themselves in ways words alone might not. Parents and educators can invite children to draw or write about their unique qualities. A journaling activity like “Write about a time when you felt proud of yourself” or “Draw a picture of yourself doing something you love” can prompt self-reflection and a stronger sense of identity.

Encouraging Emotional Expression and Resilience

Eboni-James also teaches children that emotions are complex and varied. The book emphasizes that just because a child feels happy doesn’t mean they don’t experience frustration or sadness, and vice versa. It is this emotional authenticity that children must learn to embrace—helping them understand that any single feeling or moment does not define them.

Here are some ways to foster emotional expression and resilience:

1- Normalize All Emotions

When a child expresses frustration or sadness, use the opportunity to remind them that it’s okay to feel those emotions. Just like Eboni-James in the book, children need to understand that emotions, both positive and negative, are part of the human experience. Parents can say, “It’s okay to feel upset sometimes. What can we do to make you feel better?”

2- Role-Playing and Emotional Scenarios

One way to teach emotional resilience is through role-playing. Use situations from the book or create new ones that involve overcoming emotional challenges. For instance, a role-playing exercise could involve a scenario where a child feels frustrated because something isn’t going their way. Encourage them to express their feelings and work through the situation by finding a positive solution.

3- Discuss the Importance of Asking for Help

Children are often afraid to ask for help, especially when they want to appear independent. Just Because I Am reminds readers that asking for help is a sign of bravery and strength. Parents can create conversations around when it’s okay to ask for support and how that doesn’t diminish their value. Saying something like, “It’s okay to ask for help when you need it; it doesn’t mean you’re not strong,” can reinforce this lesson.

The Role of Literature in Shaping Positive Self-Image

Literature has a unique power to shape a child’s worldview. Books like Just Because I Am can teach children about acceptance, empathy, and emotional intelligence. They offer narratives that reflect the diversity of human experience, which, in turn, helps kids better understand themselves and others.

Reading about characters who confidently embrace their identity and emotions sends a powerful message that children can carry with them throughout their lives. In fact, research shows that stories help children process complex ideas about identity, and seeing themselves reflected in a book can enhance their self-worth.

Conclusion

Just Because I Am is more than just a children’s book. It’s a tool for empowerment. By reading it with children, parents and educators can teach valuable lessons on self-acceptance, confidence, and emotional resilience. Through meaningful discussions, affirmations, and creative activities, we can help children embrace their uniqueness and navigate the world with a positive self-image. After all, just like the protagonist in the book, every child is unique, beautiful, and deserving of celebration.