As part of our Authenticity Works Initiative, we are exploring ways to encourage children to consistently show up as their true, authentic selves. What we teach them about the faces they learn to show to the world is an important part of supporting them in feeling comfortable being themselves.

Try this exercise: Take a photo of your “cheese” face. Now, take a moment to shake everything out. Relax and just be present in the moment. Then, take another selfie, of you as you are at your most comfortable. Let the photo reflect how you truly feel. How do the images differ? What feelings and thoughts come up as you compare the two?

Now, try this with the children in your life. What do you notice about their images?

We’d love to include the pictures of you and your kids – both the “cheesey” and not--in our exploration of authenticity. If you’re interested, submit the pictures and your reflections below.