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Why Your Child Deserves to See Themselves in Books (And How Gratitude Helps!)
- Cristal Tejeda
- Feb 17
- 2 min read
When I was little, I didn’t always see characters in books who looked like me. But when I did? It was like the world opened up—like someone was finally telling my story.
Books do more than entertain—they shape how our children see themselves. If they only read stories where kids who look like them are struggling, they might believe that’s all their future holds. But when they see themselves as kings, queens, scientists, adventurers, and creators, their confidence soars.
Mindfulness + Representation = A Powerful Child
Beyond books, another powerful tool for building confidence is gratitude. Teaching children to focus on what they’re thankful for helps them develop a positive mindset, boosts self-esteem, and even improves emotional resilience.
That’s why I created My First Gratitude Journal—a special space for kids to reflect on the good in their lives, celebrate their wins (big and small), and remind themselves that they are loved, powerful, and worthy. It’s not published yet, but you can grab an exclusive, unpublished version right now before anyone else!
📌 [Pre-Order Your Copy Here!] (email) readtoyou365@gmailcom
5 Must-Read Books to Boost Your Child’s Confidence
Pairing gratitude with positive representation in books? Chef’s kiss! Here are five amazing books (available through my Amazon affiliate links) that help kids see their greatness:
1️⃣ "When God Made You" by Matthew Paul Turner – A beautifully poetic book reminding children that they were created with purpose, love, and endless potential. This book encourages self-worth and faith, making it a must-have for building confidence.
🎥 [Watch My Read-Aloud!] https://youtu.be/FnjRmBzNBGk?si=pcXbu0aTiNbdgu4z
2️⃣ "I Am Enough" by Grace Byers – A powerful affirmation that teaches children they are worthy just as they are. This beautifully illustrated book reminds kids that kindness, love, and self-acceptance are their superpowers.
🎥 [Watch My Read-Aloud!](https://youtu.be/d_Cuq7sFHYo?si=5YU-nkAgh7uEgv4H)
3️⃣ "Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut" by Derrick Barnes – A celebration of Black boy joy and self-confidence, capturing the feeling of a fresh haircut and the pride that comes with it.
4️⃣ "Sulwe" by Lupita Nyong’o – A touching story about a young girl learning to embrace her beauty and uniqueness. A must-read for helping children understand self-love and self-acceptance.| 🎥 [Watch My Read-Aloud!]( https://youtu.be/tC1CsXhs6zs?si=ptl_J4Vx_GgQHF9m )
5️⃣ "Mae Among the Stars" by Roda Ahmed – The inspiring story of Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space, encouraging children to dream big and reach for the stars.
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