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Building self-esteem for Black boys doesn’t happen overnight, it grows through consistent encouragement and seeing themselves reflected in the world. Discover how literacy can transform a child’s self-worth and why ‘Love Begins with Me’ is our essential theme for February.

Building self-esteem for Black boys doesn’t happen overnight, it grows through consistent encouragement and seeing themselves reflected in the world. Discover how literacy can transform a child’s self-worth and why ‘Love Begins with Me’ is our essential theme for February.

Children learn empathy and problem solving through everyday moments. When you pause to talk about feelings, guide fair choices, and model care for others, you help your child build skills that shape lasting confidence and kindness.

Affirmations help children see the best in themselves. Speaking positive words each day builds confidence, self-worth, and resilience. With SONshine Affirmation Cards, families can turn simple moments into powerful lessons that remind every child they are brave, bold, and brilliant.

Social Emotional Learning shapes how children understand their feelings, respond to challenges, and connect with others. When a young child pauses, names a feeling, or tries again after a mistake, they are practicing SEL in real time. These everyday moments build confidence, empathy, and self-control, making it easier for children to learn and work with others. SEL gives children an early foundation that supports both emotional well-being and school success.

Dr. Sheila Thomas celebrated GA Pre-K Week by visiting nine schools to read her book JR’s Biggest Fan to Pre-K students. Each storytelling session brought laughter, connection, and meaningful conversations about confidence and encouragement. These visits highlighted the power of early literacy and the impact of having someone believe in you.

Social Emotional Learning shapes how children understand their feelings, respond to challenges, and connect with others. When a young child pauses, names a feeling, or tries again after a mistake, they are practicing SEL in real time. These everyday moments build confidence, empathy, and self-control, making it easier for children to learn and work with others. SEL gives children an early foundation that supports both emotional well-being and school success.

Pre-K gives children a strong start in school and life. In Georgia, more than 84,000 four-year-olds benefit each year from the state’s free, lottery-funded program. Research shows that children who attend Pre-K are more likely to meet grade-level reading standards by third grade and adjust smoothly to classroom routines. Families who choose to homeschool Pre-K also see benefits, with flexibility to build routines, focus on literacy, and use community resources. Whether through Georgia’s universal program or at home, early education builds skills that support long-term success and confidence.

When kids believe mistakes are part of learning, they build confidence and curiosity. A growth mindset helps children see effort as progress and challenges as opportunities. Parents can model this by sharing their own learning moments, asking “why” questions at the dinner table, and keeping play at the center of learning. From family read-alouds with funny voices to kitchen experiments that double as math lessons, joyful learning leaves a lasting impact. Surrounding kids with affirmations like “Mistakes help us grow” reinforces the message that persistence and curiosity matter more than perfection.

Dr. Sheila recently hosted a book signing at The Bookshelf in Thomasville, Georgia, where she connected with readers, celebrated her published works, and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the family and friends who continue to support her journey. The event reflected both her passion for literacy and her commitment to strengthening families through storytelling.