POSITIVE IDENTITY

The Cupcake Wrapper

The wrapper holds the contents of the cupcake and provides a structure for the cake to cook, grow and form. The same is true of a child’s identity and sense concept. It is known that how a child sees themselves is integrally connected to their happiness. When a child’s self-concept is positive, it becomes a protective factor against depression, anxiety and bad choices both in the present and later in life.

Our primary sense of identity comes from our parents. That is why this part of the program is largely parent driven. The problem is, many parents find it challenging or don’t know how to affirm and speak into their child’s identity. Perhaps they never experienced that themselves or struggle with emotional matters. Perhaps they recognise the need but don’t know how to do it. Whatever the case may be, parents are guided step by step with the Me Tree. For those who didn’t experience positive affirmation and emotional support from their parents, the Me Tree offers a chance to break the cycle and parent differently. Parents are shown how to draw the gold out of their kids and present it to them in a way that sinks both into the child’s heart and mind. School teachers will also play a vital role in affirming the qualities in their students that are identified by parents.