Early years activity: One of a Kind – That’s Me!

Let’s celebrate what makes every child one of a kind! Guide children on a journey of self-discovery – exploring their likes, differences, and what makes them unique. Through stories, thoughtful discussions and creative activities, we’ll build self-esteem and celebrate what makes each of us truly unique.

One of a Kind – That’s Me! learning aims

To begin to recognise and appreciate what makes themselves and others unique
To express thoughts, preferences and feelings using words and creative materials
To build self-confidence and form positive relationships
To develop language to describe themselves and listen to others.

Resources you will need for this activity

Mirrors
A variety of craft materials (paper, crayons, collage items, wool, pencils, etc.)
Camera
Display area.

Sharing and telling stories activity outline

Begin circle time by introducing the theme "All About Me" and exploring the idea that while we are all unique, we also share similarities. Emphasise that everyone is special in their own way
Use story books that celebrate individuality and will prompt conversations such as:
It’s Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr
Marvellous Me by Lisa Bullard.
Follow the children's lead and respond to their observations and ideas. Use discussion prompts, if necessary, such as asking the children about their likes and dislikes — favourite colours, foods, animals and activities. Encourage children to notice similarities and differences between themselves and their friends
Give each child a mirror and invite them to create a picture of themselves
Encourage them to observe features such as their skin, hair and eye colour
Encourage children to share their observations and talk about the things they enjoy. Capture their voices by adding speech bubbles with their comments, such as “I have curly, brown hair”
Take photos of each child to go alongside their portraits
Create a display titled ‘One of a kind – that’s Me!’
Display with children’s portraits, photos and their personal comments
During future circle times, revisit the display and encourage children to talk about their artwork and to notice and talk about things they have in common, as well as what makes them unique.

How to extend the activity

Play a friendship web game. Sit in a circle with a ball of wool. Encourage each child to say something they like about one of their friends, then pass the wool to that person. As the wool is passed around the circle, a web begins to form—showing how we’re all connected through kindness and friendship.