Girls Circle
www.Girlscircle.com

The objective of this activity is to identify and express one's own talents, interests, abilities, and qualities.

When introducing this activity it may be helpful to discuss with the girls how our culture tends to permit negative rather than positive self talk. Also discuss how people generally feel hesitant to say good things about themselves. And finally talk about the difference between "bragging" (which tends to put our own image "above" others) and positive self talk. Remind the girls that it is healthy to know and to express our gifts, qualities, and achievements.

1. Have the girls write on a piece of paper the following:
   a. One talent or gift they possess (i.e. fast runner, strong writer, etc.)
   b. One achievement for which they are proud ( i.e. student counsel)
   c. One thing they want to learn more about (i.e. second language)
   d. One personal quality (i.e. humorous, courageous)
   
   
2. Tell the girls they will be creating and decorating a doll of themselves. Ask them to decorate their self dolls in some way to show each of the four characteristics which they have written down.
   -Explain that they can use colors, symbols, designs, drawings, or other methods to show these characteristics they have written down.
   
   
3. Distribute precut, plain doll shapes and materials (or have the girls draw a silhouette of a girl). Encourage the girls to work quietly. Let them know they will be invited to share their dolls with one another after they are made. Allow about thirty minutes for this activity.
   
   
4. Have the girls share their dolls with each other - or with you if you are working with an individual.
   
   
5. Materials used may be markers, crayons, materials, beads, or whatever craft items you have on hand.

Examples of some follow up questions:

• What was it like to make your doll?
• How was it for you to express your dolls characteristics to the group?
• How can talking about ourselves in this way help us develop friendly attitudes towards ourselves and others?