Storytime doesn't have to end when you close the book.
After reading Tahj’s story, you can continue the conversation with simple creative activities that encourage children to express themselves, explore their identity, and celebrate what makes them unique.
Here are some easy activities to try at home, in the classroom, or during family storytime.
1. Draw a Picture of Yourself
Give your child paper and crayons and ask them to draw themselves.
Encourage them to include details that make their picture feel personal, such as their favorite hairstyle, clothing, hobbies, or favorite colors.
Ask:
“What do you like most about your picture?”
This gives children a chance to think about their own identity while being creative.
2. Create a “Things I Love About Me” Page
Make a simple page divided into different sections.
Your child can fill it with:
- Something I love about myself
- My favorite thing to do
- Something I'm good at
- Something that makes me happy
- Something I'm proud of
- Something that makes me unique
You can let them draw pictures instead of writing if they're younger.
3. Design a New Hairstyle
Hair can be a fun way for children to explore creativity.
Ask your child to design a hairstyle for themselves or create a completely imaginary hairstyle.
They can draw:
- Braids
- Curls
- Buns
- Ponytails
- Short hairstyles
- Long hairstyles
- Creative and colorful styles
There are no rules—let their imagination lead the activity.
4. Create Your Own Affirmation Cards
Make small cards using paper or cardstock.
Write one positive affirmation on each card.
For example:
“I am confident.”
“I am proud of who I am.”
“I am creative.”
“I am unique.”
“I love being me.”
Let your child decorate each card with drawings, patterns, or colors.
You can keep the cards in a small box and choose one together each morning.
5. Make a “What Makes Me Special?” Collage
Collect paper, crayons, stickers, or other safe craft materials.
Ask your child to create a collage showing the things that make them special.
They could include pictures or drawings of:
- Their family
- Their favorite activities
- Their favorite foods
- Their hobbies
- Their hairstyle
- Their favorite colors
- Things they are proud of
Display the finished collage somewhere your child can see it.
6. Have a Family Confidence Circle
Storytime can become a family activity.
Sit together and take turns answering simple questions:
“What is something you like about yourself?”
“What is something you're proud of?”
“What makes you feel confident?”
“What is something kind you can say to someone else?”
Parents and caregivers can participate too. When children hear adults speak positively about themselves, it can help make conversations about self-confidence feel normal.
7. Create a Storytime Drawing Journal
Keep a small notebook specifically for books you've read together.
After reading Tahj’s story, let your child draw their favorite idea, character, moment, or feeling from the story.
You can add one simple question underneath:
“What did this story make you think about?”
Over time, the notebook can become a collection of your child's drawings, thoughts, and creative responses to storytime.
Turn Reading Into Creative Expression
Books can open the door to conversations, creativity, and self-expression.
By following Tahj’s story with activities like drawing, affirmations, hairstyling designs, and family discussions, parents can turn a few minutes of reading into an opportunity for children to explore who they are and celebrate their individuality.
The most important part is to keep it fun. There doesn't need to be a perfect drawing, perfect answer, or perfect activity. Give children space to express themselves in their own way.
Continue Tahj’s Storytime Journey
Looking for a meaningful book that encourages conversations around confidence, identity, and self-love?
