I often get asked, “why is the i not capitalized in your children’s book?”
My answer is it is the subtle differences that make up the big differences in life. If you capitalize the I the focus becomes I and the beginning of the sentence. This leads to arrogance. When a lowercase i is used the focus becomes the end of the phrase and ultimately the opportunities and the gifts that each person has and can become.
Throughout the i love me! book children are guided through, i am happy, i am brave, i am creative etc. This opens the doors to possibilities, to growth and to gifts to give to the world. This conscious way of thinking creates children who give back by contributing positively to the world in which they live.
Unfortunately there is an air of expectation coming from many kids today. In teaching violin lessons I and other teachers have chatted about how many kids bluntly say, “no” when we ask them to play something again to practice it. It is astounding that kids would say no to adults when they are in a learning situation. Sadly, kids are saying no to adults left and right. Instead of focusing on the gifts they can bring into the world, many in this next generation are focusing on the gifts that can be given to them.
How can you ensure your kids are giving? Take a moment each day to be grateful. Make it a habit at bedtime or lunchtime to name something that each of you are grateful for. As this becomes your routine you are introducing a level of consciousness and gratefulness into the day. You will notice amazing changes in your kids and in your own perspective. This can be done with very little kids, even 1 year olds. If you wait until you think your kids understand, you have already missed an opportunity.
Parents can greatly underestimate their children’s abilities and dismiss actions by saying, “oh they are too little to understand.” There are many studies out there that state children’s habits are impressed before 3 years old. Kids learn from observation, it is all babies can do but observe. They watch your actions and reactions. Don’t wait for a study or a book to tell you what your child can understand, start early. Be proactive in your parenting.
My sister-in-law just shared a great quote with me.
Life is 10% of what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. -John Maxwell
If your children are confident in their abilities they will also be able to react positively.
In celebration of your children’s gifts I have decided to offer a special this week. Purchase 3 i love me! books from July 12-15th and I will add another one to your order for free! That’s 4 books for the price of 3.
It is the simplicity of the i love me! book that ignites the child’s potential. We are all born with gifts, but in this busy world we tend to think it has to be more complicated. Take a moment and simplify parenting, focus on the possibilities~
Happy reading and sharing of your gifts!
Summer Joy
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