My Personal Qualities Collage
Creating visual representations of personal qualities helps young children develop positive self-concept and practise articulating what makes them special.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Champions of Character
- Learning area: Visual and Creative Arts
- Level: EYFS 3-4
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
- Sugar 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 centre 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, organise 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 and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe ability to identify personal qualities, artistic representation of abstract concepts, and confidence during presentation.