I am…

In circle time in P6/7 will often be using “I am…” cards as well as a variety of other cards. The “I am” cards all have positive statements about who the children really are (even if they don’t feel like it).  They read out the statement (hopefully with gusto) and the class repeat it to them using their name. This is to reinforce the statement and help your child to believe it. They then share their thoughts about the card & ask any questions they may have.

We will use a variety of different affirmation cards including the “I am’s” The children will also use emotion cards & stones that help them to identify their feelings and acknowledge them, as well as cards relating to team work, education & more.

Far too often children and adults don’t live from their “I am’s…” (e.g. I am; good, clever, intelligent, lovely, wonderful, valuable, glorious, amazing, fantastic etc.) but rather from their “I am not’s….” (e.g. I am not… clever, good, nice, able etc.).  Which leads to fear, anger and self-loathing.

Living and acting from your “I am’s… is like seeing the world with perfect vision, you see all its amazing brilliance, clarity and wonderful colours. When you look at the world from and through your “I am’s…” you are able to see wonders and positives that come from even your worst mistakes or challenges.

Living in and from your “I am not’s…” is like looking through cracked dirty glasses, you can’t really see what is happening clearly, all you can see are shadows and lots of cracks. This causes you to become fearful, to start avoiding new challenges and experiences, and prevents you from seeing yourself, others around you and situations clearly. These negative beliefs stop you from becoming who you truly are.

My aim with this simple regular activity is to teach the children gradually to take off their “I am not… glasses” and to start seeing themselves, challenges and the world around them from their ” I am’s…”