My Personal Qualities Collage

Creating visual representations of personal qualities helps young children develop positive self-concept and practice articulating what makes them special.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Champions of Character
• Learning area: Visual and Creative Arts
• Level: Level 1

Objectives

• Identify at least three personal qualities or things they like about themselves
• Create a collage representing their positive attributes
• Present their collage to a small group

Materials

• Magazines for cutting
• Scissors
• Glue sticks
• Construction paper
• Mirrors
• Markers
• Photo of each child

Instructions

Begin by gathering children in a comfortable circle with mirrors available. Introduce the concept: 'Every person has special qualities—things that make them wonderful. Today we're going to discover and celebrate YOUR special qualities!'

Guide a brainstorming session: 'What are qualities? They're things like being kind, being brave, being a good friend, being funny, being helpful.' Create a word wall of quality words as children contribute ideas.

Provide each child with a photo of themselves (or have them draw a self-portrait) as the center of their collage. Circulate with magazines and invite children to find pictures that represent their qualities: 'If you're a good helper, maybe you can find a picture of someone helping! If you love animals, find an animal picture!'

As children work, engage in one-on-one conversations: 'Tell me about this picture. Why did you choose it? What quality does it show about you?' This verbal processing deepens self-reflection.

Once collages are complete, organize small sharing circles where each child presents: 'This is me, and I am...' followed by their qualities. Classmates listen and offer one additional quality they notice about the presenter.

Display collages on a 'Champions of Character' wall with the heading 'Look at All Our Wonderful Qualities!'

Educator tip

Some children may struggle to identify positive qualities in themselves. Have a list of observed qualities ready to offer: 'I've noticed you're really gentle with our class pet' or 'I've seen you helping friends clean up.'

Assessment

Observe ability to identify personal qualities, artistic representation of abstract concepts, and confidence during presentation.

More from Champions of Character

• Kindness Chain Challenge
• Feelings Faces Gallery
• Partner Problem Solving
• Helping Hands Garden
• Brave Bear Adventures
• Gratitude Jar Journey
• Patience Practice Games
• Compliment Circles