self-worth resources
on the night you were born
This delightful book affirms the inherent worth and value of each child. It emphasizes the celebration that takes place throughout the universe over the child's birth. It sings of telling a child that they are special and unique and fills the reader with images such as polar bears dancing until dawn while celebrating their birth. Because so much of the life journey can be filled with struggle as children (and adults) doubt their worthiness, this book may help instill a true message in regards to worthiness that a child can carry in their hearts and minds for the rest of their lives.
leo the late bloomer
This classic book affirms the developmental process of children which often includes some awkward years of growing more into who you are created to be. Across the board, Leo struggles with everything. Eventually, though, Leo grows into his own and develops more competence. This is a reassuring read for a child who might be struggling and feel awkward in his or her own skin. The truth is that the awkwardness will not last forever, and they will grow into themselves.
the ugly duckling
Reading this classic story again as an adult really hit home. Its powerful message may be most pertinent in a child's life during the developmental season in which the child might be most vulnerable to feeling awkward and even ugly--think Middle School! In many ways, this classic is worth re-visiting beyond childhood during the tween and adolescent years to instill in older kids and teens that they are of great beauty and worth no matter how awkward or unattractive they might feel. There truly is a sense of coming into one's own, and in that place of confidence, there is beauty, yet the road to get there can often be emotionally bumpy and arduous.
CHRYSANTHEMUM
This is a lovely story of a little mouse who delighted in her name until she started school. In her transition to school, her name was not well received by her peers, influencing her to feel dreadful. That is until she met her music teacher, Mrs. Twinkle, who helped reframe how Chrysanthemum viewed herself and the name her parents had bestowed upon her. Through Mrs. Twinkle's encouragement, Chrysanthemum began to feel confident again. In delighting in her name it seems that she also began to delight in herself. This is a sweet book that holds lots of wisdom regarding themes of self-confidence, but also of the power of kindness.
Dandelion
In this story Dandelion becomes so dressed up to the point that Dandelion was not recognized by friends. Dandelion reflects on this experience and returns to the party as he really is where he is received with a warm welcome. It serves as a reminder to all of us, adults and children alike to be true to who we are. Themes of self-worth and authenticity are relevant here.
DISCLAIMER: Elizabeth is a member of Amazon Affiliates. If you choose to buy a product from any of these links, Burton Counseling will receive a small portion of the proceeds. You may choose instead to support your local bookstore and buy directly from them. These are book recommendations with therapeutic and character education themes that may or may not be helpful. This is not therapy itself.
Elizabeth B. Burton is a licensed professional counselor and life coach with Burton Counseling, PLLC. Elizabeth lives just outside of Chattanooga, TN., and you can learn about Elizabeth here. You can learn more about working directly with Elizabeth here. Elizabeth also provides support to individuals and groups through an online course on Coping with Anxiety & Stress and through providing workshops. Elizabeth communicates about mental health and well-being through both the Narrating Hope newsletter and podcast as well as through her writing. Elizabeth would love to connect with you and welcomes you to sign up for the newsletter, listen in to the podcast, reach out about working together, and connect on social media.