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What I Tell Myself First: Children's Real-World Affirmations of Self Esteem
Written by a US military veteran, this children's book, based on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, will instill in children the answer to bullying, body-shaming, hate, and attacks on the self through daily affirmations. Author Mike Brown has learned many life lessons and hopes to convey some of those lessons acquired from public and private service in the Army, as a police officer, an anger management specialist, nonviolent crisis intervention instructor, educator, as well as the real-world wisdom accumulated so far, to everyone that reads this book. Teaching a sense of self-love as well as self-acceptance and giving a framework for both parents and children to help build their lives into sturdy and happy homes is his goal. What I Tell Myself FIRST: Children's Real-World Affirmations of Self Esteem is to readers what the AED is to a heart: it instills the defibrillator of self-esteem so powerful for when times are tough and your mind is under attack. Mike hones in on his military past and the methodology behind why servicemembers say creeds in various forms and military occupational specialties. This book will serve its purpose not for when times are good. But for when times are bad, when one is on that dark road and it feels like no one is there. It will serve as the proverbial jump pack to the battery of the mind. Like the hug that you needed but did not get. Like the words you needed to hear but did not hear. This book of reality-based daily affirmations are the “I wish I had this” of books. We MUST instill in our children the answer to bullying, body-shaming, hate, and attacks on the self through daily affirmations.
A lot of adults have dark roads.
Started from when they were young. The hug they didn’t get. The pain they didn’t learn to manage because mom and/or dad patched mostly all of their wounds and fought mostly all their battles. Travelling through life, hearing “You’re fat.” “You’re slow.” You’re not like us.” “You’re ugly.” “I felt disrespected when he said...” “No one loves me.” “I fell for this person because I needed love. Who knew that he’d (or she’d) be.....” “It’s your job to make me feel like...” “WHY DON’T YOU WANT ME?!” If only we'd learn very early on that these things were our jobs to perform. If only we'd learn to do for self in every way.
A lot of adults have dark roads.
Started from when they were young. The hug they didn’t get. The pain they didn’t learn to manage because mom and/or dad patched mostly all of their wounds and fought mostly all their battles. Travelling through life, hearing “You’re fat.” “You’re slow.” You’re not like us.” “You’re ugly.” “I felt disrespected when he said...” “No one loves me.” “I fell for this person because I needed love. Who knew that he’d (or she’d) be.....” “It’s your job to make me feel like...” “WHY DON’T YOU WANT ME?!” If only we'd learn very early on that these things were our jobs to perform. If only we'd learn to do for self in every way.
32 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2019
30 people are currently reading
874 people want to read
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May 17, 2025Biological age is not a barometer of relevant personality measurement. This book sometimes presents emotions in a black & white manner, and it seems to generalize certain experiences, not accounting for the diverse backgrounds children come from. I think play is essential for a child's development, and its importance in building self esteem could be emphasized more. The book closely ties self esteem to achievements, but while achievements can boost self esteem, innate self-worth should be nurtured as well.
In my view, self esteem is not merely about achievements or external validations. It's rather about understanding and accepting oneself, flaws and all. It's about recognizing that me, you and all people has inherent worth, irrespective of their failures. Allowing children to fail and recover helps build a much robust sense of self. Many adults - and I think to myself too - carry the wounds of childhood into their adult lives , it is something inevitable, and often quite difficult to control. The years may have taken us far from those carefree days, but the spirit of our youthful selves remains ever present.
I honor the essence of my childhood, and wonder that still lives within me, though my paths have diverged, the child within me has never truly vanished, and I guess in nurturing this inner child, I keep my strength of my sense of self worth.
It is through embracing every part of myself - the past, the present, and my dreams yet to be realized - that I am truly whole.
No matter where life leads, the essence of who I am remains steadfast, ever youthful.
In my view, self esteem is not merely about achievements or external validations. It's rather about understanding and accepting oneself, flaws and all. It's about recognizing that me, you and all people has inherent worth, irrespective of their failures. Allowing children to fail and recover helps build a much robust sense of self. Many adults - and I think to myself too - carry the wounds of childhood into their adult lives , it is something inevitable, and often quite difficult to control. The years may have taken us far from those carefree days, but the spirit of our youthful selves remains ever present.
I honor the essence of my childhood, and wonder that still lives within me, though my paths have diverged, the child within me has never truly vanished, and I guess in nurturing this inner child, I keep my strength of my sense of self worth.
It is through embracing every part of myself - the past, the present, and my dreams yet to be realized - that I am truly whole.
No matter where life leads, the essence of who I am remains steadfast, ever youthful.
January 10, 2020
What I tell myself first is the perfect read for my son who is 8 years old and is struggling with fitting in with his peers at school and acceptance from others.
When I received it I first read it to him and on the second night I had him read it to me and explain what he retained. It is a great book for a caregiver to read to their child and discuss what they are taking from it as well as a guide to explain what's most important and that is themself.
It can be hard for a child to comprehend things spoken in a heart to heart conversation but when you have visuals to explore in a book like this it can be a great tool. When a teacher meets you after class and explains how your child has changed the outlook of others you know it's working, then to ask what you have been doing with them to help reshape their mind and you explain the book or bring them a copy to read to the class you know you are helping shape the future of others.
I definitely recommend this book to caregivers/parents of children who are struggling with self acceptance and can't stress enough how important it is to help them understand they Are enough, they Will be all they can be!
When I received it I first read it to him and on the second night I had him read it to me and explain what he retained. It is a great book for a caregiver to read to their child and discuss what they are taking from it as well as a guide to explain what's most important and that is themself.
It can be hard for a child to comprehend things spoken in a heart to heart conversation but when you have visuals to explore in a book like this it can be a great tool. When a teacher meets you after class and explains how your child has changed the outlook of others you know it's working, then to ask what you have been doing with them to help reshape their mind and you explain the book or bring them a copy to read to the class you know you are helping shape the future of others.
I definitely recommend this book to caregivers/parents of children who are struggling with self acceptance and can't stress enough how important it is to help them understand they Are enough, they Will be all they can be!
October 22, 2020
What I Tell Myself FIRST is a book of Children's Real-World Affirmations of Self Esteem that gives some important messages like believe in yourself and helps them to boost their confidence and make them ready for tough times.
This is an amazing book that talks about self love, self acceptance and positivity. This book is a wonderful read for children so they can understand how to deal with difficult situations and feelings. These affirmations are based on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, will instill in children the answer to bullying, body-shaming, hate, and attacks on the self through daily affirmations. It is written in a very easy and simple manner and Illustrations are also very cute and wonderful which are expressed very beautifully so kids can easily read and understand this book.The Book is written in a rhyming manner so you can sing along with your little ones and teach them various important lessons of life .
This book is worth reading with the children and can be used as a teaching tool in school libraries. I just want to admire the author for writing such a wonderful book for children which can be read daily with them to grow them as confident human being so I highly recommend this book to all the parents out there.
perfect for 3+ kids
This is an amazing book that talks about self love, self acceptance and positivity. This book is a wonderful read for children so they can understand how to deal with difficult situations and feelings. These affirmations are based on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, will instill in children the answer to bullying, body-shaming, hate, and attacks on the self through daily affirmations. It is written in a very easy and simple manner and Illustrations are also very cute and wonderful which are expressed very beautifully so kids can easily read and understand this book.The Book is written in a rhyming manner so you can sing along with your little ones and teach them various important lessons of life .
This book is worth reading with the children and can be used as a teaching tool in school libraries. I just want to admire the author for writing such a wonderful book for children which can be read daily with them to grow them as confident human being so I highly recommend this book to all the parents out there.
perfect for 3+ kids
February 10, 2020
Reviewed by Eve Panzer for The Barefoot Librarian and Reader Views Kids (02/2020)
“What I Tell Myself First” by Michael A. Brown is a much-needed tool for educators and parents trying to promote the development of self-esteem in their students and children. It is in a workbook format rather than a storybook, with blanks for the children to write their answers. The interactive book engages children and provides opportunities for discussion. The diversity in the characters in shape, size, color, and appearance makes the book inclusive for all children.
At a young age, children begin facing challenges. As educators and parents, we need to provide children with the tools to face them. It can be a daunting task, but books often give us the opportunity to talk with kids about some tough issues. “What I Tell Myself First” is an important and useful resource to use when building self-esteem to help children navigate their world.
Each page addresses a different aspect of building self-esteem. Major topics include respect; change; embracing your abilities; accepting your limitations; responsibility; self-acceptance; and learning from our mistakes. Below are some messages quoted from the book.
“If I am not right that’s okay. I won’t always be right. Failure is part of success if I learn from failure.”
“Change can be good. Change can be bad. Change can be happy. Change can be sad. I can change some things. I will change some things. I won’t change some things.”
“Before I do anything, I must think first. Two ears and one mouth. Hear more with less mouth.”
“I must wait until the right time to do things. I must speak when it’s time. I must speak what is mine.”
“Work equals worth. In my work, I am worth. Respect is earned when I give respect. I must act in a good way that earns respect.”
“How I look can earn respect. How I speak can earn respect. Not everyone will give me what I earn. Not everyone will respect me. That is okay. I respect me!”
There are a few statements that I think an adult will need to clarify. One is “I must love me first. I must be selfish before I am selfless.” Self-love is important. However, an adult needs to also point out that sharing and helping others is part of being a good global citizen, earning respect and self-respect.
Another statement that will need more explanation for children is: “It is NO ONE’s job to ‘Protect Me’ from anything. That is my job.” Children also need to understand that they do not need to face issues alone. Children need to feel free and safe talking to trusted adults and realize this is a way they can protect themselves. Both of these are great opportunities for adults and children to have meaningful discussions.
The last page of the book includes a kid-friendly diagram of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. “Abraham Harold Maslow (April 1, 1908 – June 8, 1970) was a psychologist who studied positive human qualities and the lives of exemplary people. In 1954, Maslow created the Hierarchy of Human Needs and expressed his theories in his book, Motivation and Personality.” This offers another opportunity for discourse.
With cheerful, colorful, fun and diverse illustrations, as well as brief text on each page, this book makes many tough topics approachable and relatable. The author’s introduction and endnote help us to understand that these messages are heartfelt. Building self-esteem from an early age and developing social and emotional skills will help children navigate their world in a healthier way.
“What I Tell Myself First” by Michael A. Brown is recommended for parents and educators of children ages 3-10. This book is also available in Spanish!
“What I Tell Myself First” by Michael A. Brown is a much-needed tool for educators and parents trying to promote the development of self-esteem in their students and children. It is in a workbook format rather than a storybook, with blanks for the children to write their answers. The interactive book engages children and provides opportunities for discussion. The diversity in the characters in shape, size, color, and appearance makes the book inclusive for all children.
At a young age, children begin facing challenges. As educators and parents, we need to provide children with the tools to face them. It can be a daunting task, but books often give us the opportunity to talk with kids about some tough issues. “What I Tell Myself First” is an important and useful resource to use when building self-esteem to help children navigate their world.
Each page addresses a different aspect of building self-esteem. Major topics include respect; change; embracing your abilities; accepting your limitations; responsibility; self-acceptance; and learning from our mistakes. Below are some messages quoted from the book.
“If I am not right that’s okay. I won’t always be right. Failure is part of success if I learn from failure.”
“Change can be good. Change can be bad. Change can be happy. Change can be sad. I can change some things. I will change some things. I won’t change some things.”
“Before I do anything, I must think first. Two ears and one mouth. Hear more with less mouth.”
“I must wait until the right time to do things. I must speak when it’s time. I must speak what is mine.”
“Work equals worth. In my work, I am worth. Respect is earned when I give respect. I must act in a good way that earns respect.”
“How I look can earn respect. How I speak can earn respect. Not everyone will give me what I earn. Not everyone will respect me. That is okay. I respect me!”
There are a few statements that I think an adult will need to clarify. One is “I must love me first. I must be selfish before I am selfless.” Self-love is important. However, an adult needs to also point out that sharing and helping others is part of being a good global citizen, earning respect and self-respect.
Another statement that will need more explanation for children is: “It is NO ONE’s job to ‘Protect Me’ from anything. That is my job.” Children also need to understand that they do not need to face issues alone. Children need to feel free and safe talking to trusted adults and realize this is a way they can protect themselves. Both of these are great opportunities for adults and children to have meaningful discussions.
The last page of the book includes a kid-friendly diagram of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. “Abraham Harold Maslow (April 1, 1908 – June 8, 1970) was a psychologist who studied positive human qualities and the lives of exemplary people. In 1954, Maslow created the Hierarchy of Human Needs and expressed his theories in his book, Motivation and Personality.” This offers another opportunity for discourse.
With cheerful, colorful, fun and diverse illustrations, as well as brief text on each page, this book makes many tough topics approachable and relatable. The author’s introduction and endnote help us to understand that these messages are heartfelt. Building self-esteem from an early age and developing social and emotional skills will help children navigate their world in a healthier way.
“What I Tell Myself First” by Michael A. Brown is recommended for parents and educators of children ages 3-10. This book is also available in Spanish!
December 17, 2019
What I Tell Myself FIRST, Children's Real-World Affirmations of Self Esteem, by Michael A Brown, is a young reader book that emphasizes what goes on inside a child as he or she develops. It is a strategic tool to help buffer against life itself, which throws its barbs at us in so many ways. Whether from family members, schoolmates, or adults, negative input affects how a person sees himself or herself. The book provides good directions on manners, simple reminders of how to treat others and support them even on bad days.
I thought this is a great book. It doesn’t whitewash life with pithy promises of dream your dream and it will happen. It works rather to help the reader accept who they are, and work harder on the things they need help with. It’s practical and written on a level that children can understand and appreciate.
The artwork is clever and color filled, generating ideas for kids so they can better understand the material presented. The pictures are inclusive and universal so kids from all sorts of backgrounds can relate to it.
I would recommend this book to parents who find themselves with kids struggling with who they are and who they are not. I would also recommend this book to school counselors to help children build positive habits of self-reflection. A book like this is a good one to visit again and again as the habits are built into a young life. What I Tell Myself FIRST, Children's Real-World Affirmations of Self Esteem, by Michael A Brown, is highly recommended.
I thought this is a great book. It doesn’t whitewash life with pithy promises of dream your dream and it will happen. It works rather to help the reader accept who they are, and work harder on the things they need help with. It’s practical and written on a level that children can understand and appreciate.
The artwork is clever and color filled, generating ideas for kids so they can better understand the material presented. The pictures are inclusive and universal so kids from all sorts of backgrounds can relate to it.
I would recommend this book to parents who find themselves with kids struggling with who they are and who they are not. I would also recommend this book to school counselors to help children build positive habits of self-reflection. A book like this is a good one to visit again and again as the habits are built into a young life. What I Tell Myself FIRST, Children's Real-World Affirmations of Self Esteem, by Michael A Brown, is highly recommended.
February 11, 2021
I was searching for a book that would help build self esteem in my son who is starting to experience teasing. Although the concepts in this book are hard for a four year old to understand, I do like that it’s customizable and that I can start planting the seeds of confidence in him. I adapted the first two pages to be simple thoughts that as he grows older, I’ll be able to expand on.
My breakdown for him is that truths we tell ourselves are good all around and lies we tell ourselves are bad. If we feel bad we can remember to create our own happiness by trying something new, protecting ourselves, loving ourselves... I know teasing is a stage that all kids go through but I hope to give him the tools to be a strong person and for him to know that I will always be there for him. I am the mom who has loving hugs, a heart that speaks words that heal, and a mind that will nuture his own problem solving.
Bonus: diverse characters
My breakdown for him is that truths we tell ourselves are good all around and lies we tell ourselves are bad. If we feel bad we can remember to create our own happiness by trying something new, protecting ourselves, loving ourselves... I know teasing is a stage that all kids go through but I hope to give him the tools to be a strong person and for him to know that I will always be there for him. I am the mom who has loving hugs, a heart that speaks words that heal, and a mind that will nuture his own problem solving.
Bonus: diverse characters
December 25, 2019
Author, Michael Brown provides us his outstanding work with his new children’s book, “What I tell Myself First” by providing young readers an easy-reading book packed with ways to help build and foster self-esteem. A father, a veteran of the U.S. Army, and police officer, Brown packages a host of life lessons geared toward building self-esteem in young adolescents. The book easily places the young reader in the shoes of each character through masterful illustration by Zoe Ranucci. Your child will turn each page with a more refined idea of the life lesson they just learned, then pack it away in their mental RAM for later use. If this book changes just one kid’s life, then Michael Brown has accomplished his goal. My hat’s off to him. Order his book today and put or keep your children on the proper vector in life!
Ken Murray, Author, "On Parr”
Ken Murray, Author, "On Parr”
January 29, 2020
What I Tell Myself FIRST by Michael A. Brown is a straight up conversation starter with children intended to help them affirm the process of growing up. This book teaches children that they don’t have to be perfect or liked by everyone else to be okay. It encourages them to like themselves and to help others. Teaching children that it is good to “perfect what they are good at, work hard at what they are not good at and either get better or do something else” frees kids from expectations that they have to be great at everything. Lessons such as how to earn respect and why respect is important are addressed. What I Tell Myself FIRST by Michael A. Brown encourages a refreshing conversation of healing and hope for the children of the 20s.
Opinion:
Overall, I found the book What I Tell Myself FIRST to be a frank and healing conversation starter about self-esteem. A few of the lines disturbed me, especially when I read them from a child’s black/white perspective. I found myself arguing with some of the affirmations. I imagine that while writing this book, the author summed up some of the affirmations he discussed with his children and friends, but some of the deeper conversations behind the affirmations were intentionally left out to encourage conversations between the adult and the child reading this book. I imagine that the connection to a child’s spirituality was intentionally left out to maintain inclusivity. This leaves room for discussion on many levels.
I recommend this book for any age as long as an adult is close by, coaching an open conversation while reading with the child to affirm the affirmations. Kudos to author Michael A. Brown for using his voice to open the conversation for children learning to “own” themselves and to be proud of who they are becoming.
Opinion:
Overall, I found the book What I Tell Myself FIRST to be a frank and healing conversation starter about self-esteem. A few of the lines disturbed me, especially when I read them from a child’s black/white perspective. I found myself arguing with some of the affirmations. I imagine that while writing this book, the author summed up some of the affirmations he discussed with his children and friends, but some of the deeper conversations behind the affirmations were intentionally left out to encourage conversations between the adult and the child reading this book. I imagine that the connection to a child’s spirituality was intentionally left out to maintain inclusivity. This leaves room for discussion on many levels.
I recommend this book for any age as long as an adult is close by, coaching an open conversation while reading with the child to affirm the affirmations. Kudos to author Michael A. Brown for using his voice to open the conversation for children learning to “own” themselves and to be proud of who they are becoming.
June 24, 2020
I was blown away by this book, I really love the concept!! It’s filled with wisdom and is wonderfully illustrated. It’s not really a story, it’s basically filled with easy to understand affirmations perfectly presented to hopefully reassure readers and build self esteem. Did I mention I love this book 🤣 As a teacher myself the first thought I had was “This book would be the perfect morning opener everyday. When class begins, just greet the kids, say good morning and break out this book and read it together” (repeat after me style)... I feel like it wouldn’t take long before everyone memorized the book off by heart and honestly I think the positive effects of that would be gigantic. The world needs more books like this and I will definitely be incorporating this into my morning routine and highly recommend you add this to your children’s bookshelf
December 23, 2019
I cant even express how amazing this book is!!! I wanted to cry after reading it to her- i try to instill these values everyday with my daughter, but to be able to read this to her in a way she can try to understand was amazing... This world can be very cruel sometimes and very judgemental but i never want her to feel like she needs to be a certain way or needs to make others feel a certain way about her... Hands down the very best book ever!!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏
January 11, 2020
Great Advice for Kids and Adults!
“I must be selfish before I am selfless.
I am no good to anyone else, if I am not good to myself.
Work equals worth.
Respect is earned when I give respect.”
It’s not too bold a statement to say that we should all practice the wisdom in this book. We’re we all to do so, most of the toxicity in our culture would vanish. Great book! Great job by this author for speaking truth to youth!
“I must be selfish before I am selfless.
I am no good to anyone else, if I am not good to myself.
Work equals worth.
Respect is earned when I give respect.”
It’s not too bold a statement to say that we should all practice the wisdom in this book. We’re we all to do so, most of the toxicity in our culture would vanish. Great book! Great job by this author for speaking truth to youth!
December 24, 2019
What I Tell Myself First: Children's Real-World Affirmations of Self Esteem is a great book for children to read and gain the understanding about what is important to know about themselves. We live in a crazy world where technology can take over one's life and now most children are playing on their devices and not playing with their toys or even interacting with each other. At times this can cause the children to loose the connection with their inner self and the connection to others. Author Michael Brown done an incredible job for creating this book for children to help gain their self esteem and to feel happy about everything they do as a child, even at times when they experience a lot of imperfection in their lives. I give so much thanks to Michael Brown for creating a huge difference for the children.
February 12, 2020
What I Tell Myself First: Children’s Real-World Affirmations of Self-Esteem
Written by Michael A. Brown
What I Tell Myself First is a much-needed tool for educators and parents trying to promote the development of self-esteem in their students and children. It is in a workbook format rather than a storybook, with blanks for the children to write their answers. The interactive book engages children and provides opportunities for discussion. The diversity in the characters in shape, size, color, and appearance makes the book inclusive for all children.
At a young age, children begin facing challenges. As educators and parents, we need to provide children with the tools to face them. It can be a daunting task, but books often give us the opportunity to talk with kids about some tough issues. What I Tell Myself First is an important and useful resource to use when building self-esteem to help children navigate their world.
Each page addresses a different aspect of building self-esteem. Major topics include respect; change; embracing your abilities; accepting your limitations; responsibility; self-acceptance; and learning from our mistakes. Below are some messages quoted from the book.
“If I am not right that’s okay. I won’t always be right. Failure is part of success if I learn from failure.”
“Change can be good. Change can be bad. Change can be happy. Change can be sad. I can change some things. I will change some things. I won’t change some things.”
“Before I do anything, I must think first. Two ears and one mouth. Hear more with less mouth.”
“I must wait until the right time to do things. I must speak when it’s time. I must speak what is mine.”
“Work equals worth. In my work, I am worth. Respect is earned when I give respect. I must act in a good way that earns respect.”
“How I look can earn respect. How I speak can earn respect. Not everyone will give me what I earn. Not everyone will respect me. That is okay. I respect me!”
There are a few statements that I think an adult will need to clarify. One is “I must love me first. I must be selfish before I am selfless.” Self-love is important. However, an adult needs to also point out that sharing and helping others is part of being a good global citizen, earning respect and self-respect.
Another statement that will need more explanation for children is: “It is NO ONE’s job to ‘Protect Me’ from anything. That is my job.” Children also need to understand that they do not need to face issues alone. Children need to feel free and safe talking to trusted adults and realize this is a way they can protect themselves. Both of these are great opportunities for adults and children to have meaningful discussions.
The last page of the book includes a kid-friendly diagram of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. “Abraham Harold Maslow (April 1, 1908 - June 8, 1970) was a psychologist who studied positive human qualities and the lives of exemplary people. In 1954, Maslow created the Hierarchy of Human Needs and expressed his theories in his book, Motivation and Personality.” This offers another opportunity for discourse.
With cheerful, colorful, fun and diverse illustrations, as well as brief text on each page, this book makes many tough topics approachable and relatable. The author’s introduction and endnote help us to understand that these messages are heartfelt. Building self-esteem from an early age and developing social and emotional skills will help children navigate their world in a healthier way. This book is recommended for parents and educators of children ages 3-10. This book is also available in Spanish!
Written by Michael A. Brown
What I Tell Myself First is a much-needed tool for educators and parents trying to promote the development of self-esteem in their students and children. It is in a workbook format rather than a storybook, with blanks for the children to write their answers. The interactive book engages children and provides opportunities for discussion. The diversity in the characters in shape, size, color, and appearance makes the book inclusive for all children.
At a young age, children begin facing challenges. As educators and parents, we need to provide children with the tools to face them. It can be a daunting task, but books often give us the opportunity to talk with kids about some tough issues. What I Tell Myself First is an important and useful resource to use when building self-esteem to help children navigate their world.
Each page addresses a different aspect of building self-esteem. Major topics include respect; change; embracing your abilities; accepting your limitations; responsibility; self-acceptance; and learning from our mistakes. Below are some messages quoted from the book.
“If I am not right that’s okay. I won’t always be right. Failure is part of success if I learn from failure.”
“Change can be good. Change can be bad. Change can be happy. Change can be sad. I can change some things. I will change some things. I won’t change some things.”
“Before I do anything, I must think first. Two ears and one mouth. Hear more with less mouth.”
“I must wait until the right time to do things. I must speak when it’s time. I must speak what is mine.”
“Work equals worth. In my work, I am worth. Respect is earned when I give respect. I must act in a good way that earns respect.”
“How I look can earn respect. How I speak can earn respect. Not everyone will give me what I earn. Not everyone will respect me. That is okay. I respect me!”
There are a few statements that I think an adult will need to clarify. One is “I must love me first. I must be selfish before I am selfless.” Self-love is important. However, an adult needs to also point out that sharing and helping others is part of being a good global citizen, earning respect and self-respect.
Another statement that will need more explanation for children is: “It is NO ONE’s job to ‘Protect Me’ from anything. That is my job.” Children also need to understand that they do not need to face issues alone. Children need to feel free and safe talking to trusted adults and realize this is a way they can protect themselves. Both of these are great opportunities for adults and children to have meaningful discussions.
The last page of the book includes a kid-friendly diagram of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. “Abraham Harold Maslow (April 1, 1908 - June 8, 1970) was a psychologist who studied positive human qualities and the lives of exemplary people. In 1954, Maslow created the Hierarchy of Human Needs and expressed his theories in his book, Motivation and Personality.” This offers another opportunity for discourse.
With cheerful, colorful, fun and diverse illustrations, as well as brief text on each page, this book makes many tough topics approachable and relatable. The author’s introduction and endnote help us to understand that these messages are heartfelt. Building self-esteem from an early age and developing social and emotional skills will help children navigate their world in a healthier way. This book is recommended for parents and educators of children ages 3-10. This book is also available in Spanish!
March 12, 2020
I was asked by Lovereading to review this inspiring book - I totally get this concept and familiar with Maslow's Hierarchy of needs. I wish this book had been around when I was younger.
The author analysis the child developing brain and to help with life. My mother would say things like "I don't want to know you" and walk away from me - how's that for self esteem!! this book tells the reader they don't have to be perfect - teaches the child to actually like themselves and then to help others
this book will leave both child and parent so empowered - wow what a powerful book.
Easy to read, relate and apply well done.
The author analysis the child developing brain and to help with life. My mother would say things like "I don't want to know you" and walk away from me - how's that for self esteem!! this book tells the reader they don't have to be perfect - teaches the child to actually like themselves and then to help others
this book will leave both child and parent so empowered - wow what a powerful book.
Easy to read, relate and apply well done.
December 27, 2019
This is such an amazing book! Both children and adults can relate to this book. It will leave you feeling empowered! Great job author! I encourage everyone to read this book whether you're going through trials and tribulations or just looking for a good read!
December 26, 2019
This is one of the best children's self esteem books that I've come across in a while. The characters are easily identifiable to my children and how they relate to their daily issues, even to the point where my oldest took it to school to show her classmates!!
Definitely my new go to read with the kids!!
Really Awesome book!!
Angel C.
Definitely my new go to read with the kids!!
Really Awesome book!!
Angel C.
January 12, 2020
As a single father of a 5 year old I am always about worried about setting an example for my daughter about who the man is she should one day marry. She deserves a man who shows her the same respect love care honesty and trust that I show her. I also do my best to show her how to be confident self reliant and an overall good human being. This book helps me to set the tone in a way thats fun & easy to understand; it speaks her language. Children always hear to respect themselves and respect others ... but this book is their instruction manual! Do you self a favor and deviate from the typical night time read with your kid and get this book in your rotation. It’s an amazing feeling to hear your child talk about not being perfect but being perfectly OK with that, or that they’re not the best at something but are determined to never give up. Thanks Mike, this book came in our lives right on time and has found a special place our hearts!
December 24, 2019
I truly loved the book. It shows u wht kids really go thru. It illustrates hw kids think n the responses is so real. I can relate because sm of it spoke about me. Learning hw to b polite. That's gets u far. I was taught this as a kid. I had to b taught I'm pretty. I was skinny as a kid n the kids talked about me. Did it hurt my feelings yes. Til I learned that I was pretty. I'm different frm most. Hw can a kid know that their loved if nobody tells them. Sometimes u hv to go thru sm things to learn sm things.Great book Mike Brown.
January 16, 2020
To be honest you think you’re going to just get a children’s book. In actuality, you end up getting a book that helps you as an adult also. It’s really great for children to help them develop their self love and remind them its okay to just be yourself. This needs to be in all the school’s, libraries, everywhere honestly! I highly recommend this for children of all ages (even adults lol)!
June 21, 2020
This looks good, I will read it with my grandchildren. It should spark a lot of ideas about self-talk.
December 24, 2019
What I Tell Myself first is a children's book like no other! Children AND adults can receive great value from this book. It promotes self love and encourages children to be autonomous whilst facing adversity; for parents will not always be around to protect them. This book is a winner and needs to be in every household.
The author is genius!
The author is genius!
Want to read
June 16, 2020This is a good book for discussion and sharing and would work well for reading to multiple children to spark discussion. I particularly liked the ideas about listening to others and feeling good about yourself and your body no matter what shape or size you are currently.
December 30, 2019
Wow! What an awesome read! I recommend parents get this book for their children. It will give them the tools they need to combat bullying, peer pressure,etc. This book should be required reading in all elementary schools.
September 24, 2020
I recently had an unintentional 'run in' with someone who became upset with me. In the midst of her ranting, I began to realize that she seemed most angry about how she though I was perceiving her. In retrospect, I think the issue was she was really undervaluing herself by placing too much emphasis on my (a stranger's) opinion of her. I think this issue of self-esteem cannot be over emphasized and I think this book is a great way to teach our young children. The illustrations and text are lively and interesting. It's a great message and a nice way to teach it.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
April 22, 2020
“What I tell myself first: Children’s real-world affirmations of self esteem” is a book written by Michael Brown, illustrated by Zoe Ranucci and edited by Kendra Middleton Williams.
This is a children’s book based on the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs that will establish firmly some answers on kids; bullying, body shaming, and hate. I believe this book is very useful and its read is certainly insightful. All this teachings are provided by the author from his own experiences in life.
This is a book that teaches lessons that will be very useful for children’s lives. The reading flows smoothly and the author’s writing style is very good and attracts readers from the very beginning.
I will definitely recommend reading What I tell myself first and I undoubtedly give this book five stars out of five because I truly believe that the topics included are very important and that this read will be very helpful for many people.
This is a children’s book based on the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs that will establish firmly some answers on kids; bullying, body shaming, and hate. I believe this book is very useful and its read is certainly insightful. All this teachings are provided by the author from his own experiences in life.
This is a book that teaches lessons that will be very useful for children’s lives. The reading flows smoothly and the author’s writing style is very good and attracts readers from the very beginning.
I will definitely recommend reading What I tell myself first and I undoubtedly give this book five stars out of five because I truly believe that the topics included are very important and that this read will be very helpful for many people.
April 23, 2020
Written by Michael A. Brown and illustrated by Zoe Ranucci this book is inspirational and a self-esteem booster which teaches lessons to both children and their parents.
Based on Marlow’s Hierarchy of needs, What I Tell Myself FIRST can be read by parents to their kids or by kids themselves if they know how to read. It giveS insights into kids self-esteem, bullying, body shaming, love and hate and helps them find answers to these insecurities. All those insights are provided by the author, a father himself, based on his own experiences in life.
Illustrations were chosen perfectly well for the purpose of helping kids grow up as individuals who are totally capable of being happy and free of prejudices.
I definitely recommend this book and assigned 5 stars to it since I firmly believe it will radically change the lives of many kids and parents who do not know how to deal with certain situations.
Based on Marlow’s Hierarchy of needs, What I Tell Myself FIRST can be read by parents to their kids or by kids themselves if they know how to read. It giveS insights into kids self-esteem, bullying, body shaming, love and hate and helps them find answers to these insecurities. All those insights are provided by the author, a father himself, based on his own experiences in life.
Illustrations were chosen perfectly well for the purpose of helping kids grow up as individuals who are totally capable of being happy and free of prejudices.
I definitely recommend this book and assigned 5 stars to it since I firmly believe it will radically change the lives of many kids and parents who do not know how to deal with certain situations.
April 20, 2020
A children’s book based on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs might not sound like a good children’s book. But if you take a deeper look inside, you will find that the author took a lot of time detailing the story and outlining a consistent message of hope, self-love and self-worth as well as a great message against bullying. I really loved the page on self-love. Without being able to love yourself, you will not be able to love others truly, nor will they be able to love you, that is such an important message that we need to be teaching our children.
I am reading this often with my 7-year-old as well as my 5-year-old. They are both at an age where they often feel unsecure with themselves, and this book is a good reminder for them in so many ways. The graphics are really nicely done and the writing is easy for young kids to understand.
I am reading this often with my 7-year-old as well as my 5-year-old. They are both at an age where they often feel unsecure with themselves, and this book is a good reminder for them in so many ways. The graphics are really nicely done and the writing is easy for young kids to understand.
Read
April 26, 2020Amazing children’s book
This book needs to be staple in every school/child’s life. It explains things easily and in a way that a child can remember. It’s so important to read this book to children because it covers many areas of the values we as people need to have. We want our kids to be caring and loving to others but most importantly we want our kids to feel as if they can do anything and be caring and loving to themselves. This book is a perfect way for them to remember in difficult situations that they are great and can do anything, that they will not be perfect and what counts is the effort, and to treat others with respect. The illustrations are great too, there are a variety of children drawn in the book so that it is very inclusive. This book is amazing and I will be reading it to all the kids in my family as well as recommending it to other parents.
This book needs to be staple in every school/child’s life. It explains things easily and in a way that a child can remember. It’s so important to read this book to children because it covers many areas of the values we as people need to have. We want our kids to be caring and loving to others but most importantly we want our kids to feel as if they can do anything and be caring and loving to themselves. This book is a perfect way for them to remember in difficult situations that they are great and can do anything, that they will not be perfect and what counts is the effort, and to treat others with respect. The illustrations are great too, there are a variety of children drawn in the book so that it is very inclusive. This book is amazing and I will be reading it to all the kids in my family as well as recommending it to other parents.
July 16, 2020
This is a wonderful book to start reading frequently, to your little ones. It’s important that every child be taught to build their self esteem early on in life. The author did a nice job pointing out little things that can build up ones self confidence. I’m excited to share this book with my grandchildren.
The only part that I did not care for was the mention of sex in the pyramid toward the back of the book. With an adult reading this, they could avoid it but if an older child reads it, it may be inappropriate.
The only part that I did not care for was the mention of sex in the pyramid toward the back of the book. With an adult reading this, they could avoid it but if an older child reads it, it may be inappropriate.
January 10, 2021
Awesome book
I think children and adults can learn something from this book... I alike like the fact that the pictures are multicultural so that children from all backgrounds can see them selves on the pages I love it
I think children and adults can learn something from this book... I alike like the fact that the pictures are multicultural so that children from all backgrounds can see them selves on the pages I love it
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