Portraits in young learner lessons: Self-identity panels which celebrate their individuality and uniqueness.

Have you ever felt stuck while planning activities for the first days with your young learners?
Especially when you want to choose something that helps ou connect with them from day one?
I hope today’s article offers a bit of inspiration for those moments!

According to Malaguzzi and Musatti (1996), “A self-portrait is an intimate bold declaration of identity. In her self-portrait, a child offers herself as both subject and artist. When we look at her self-portrait, we see a child as she sees herself.”

This type of activity with children is not only about drawing, it’s actually about identity, inclusion and self-love. Self-portraits are a way for children “to claim their space”; it’s a powerful practice that honours the child’s voice and agency.

1) Material:

• A mirror for each child (or use mirrors available at school)
• Creative materials: paint and brushes, felt-tip pens, glitter, buttons, wool, cotton, beads, plastic bottle caps, ribbons, etc
• Sulfite, cardboard or kraft paper

2) Circle Time – Let’s talk about faces:

• Invite children to sit in a circle and explore how they look. Encourage them to gently touch different parts of their face and head (nose, hair, eyes, ear, mouth, head, etc).
• Ask questions about their features: eye colour / size; hair colour / length / style; mouth and ears (big or small), skin colour, nose shape…
• Highlight how beautiful they all are!!!

3) Time to register:

Tell students it’s time to register on paper what we see and feel. Give each child a sheet of paper along with a mirror.

4) Prompt Reflection:

Ask students: “What can you see in the mirror?” Listen carefully and respond with kindness. Ask follow-up questions to help them describe themselves with more details and confidence.

5) Self-portrait creation:

Invite students to produce their self-portraits using the creative materials mentioned above. Don’t forget it’s a free drawing activity!

6) Share in the circle again:

Once the portraits are done, bring the children back together to share one thing they love most about themselves / their drawings.

7) Affirmation time!

Once the portraits are done, bring the children back together to share one thing they love most about themselves / their drawings.

8) Documentation & Display:

Collect the self-portraits and hang them in their classroom. This turns their work into a visual celebration of identity and belonging.