“I’m Proud to Be Me”: Why This Free Download Means So Much Right Now

 
 

I’ve taught in classrooms around the world—from the Texas to Belgium to South Korea and Ethiopia—and I’ve seen just how much identity, language, and confidence are linked in children.

That’s me in my happy place, with the kiddos.

Now, as a mom and immigrant living in Germany, I’m watching my own child navigate language in a way I can’t. He’s the one translating for me now. And it’s beautiful. And hard. And humbling.

That’s part of why I created these affirmation cards—17 messages of self-worth and kindness that children (ages 0–5… or heck, all the way to 100!) can see, say, feel, and believe.

They’re available in English and Spanish.
They’re printable.
They’re free.
But more importantly, they’re powerful.

Each card features a character from our Zoo Language Adventures book series—a dancing panda, a guitar-playing lion, a reading tiger—and says something simple:
I am kind.
I am strong.
I am loved.

And the very last one?
“I’m proud to be me.”

It includes space for kids to draw themselves—and if you want to take it further, ask them: What makes you proud? Let them say it, write it, share it—in any language that resonates with them. Put it on your fridge. Let them see it every day.

Because art is cultural. Identity is personal. And words matter—especially the ones we say to ourselves.

I consulted with a clinical psychologist while creating this because I didn’t want these to just be cute. I wanted them to do something. To build kids up in a world that too often tears down what’s unfamiliar or different.

And I’ll be honest—this isn’t just about kids. This is about us, too.

Recently, someone said something that really knocked me down. I cried hard—because I care hard. And for a few days, I felt immobile. Tired. Questioning everything.

But eventually, I got up and put on my shirt that says “Be You.”
And it reminded me exactly why I do this. Why I built TA-DA!

I believe in this mission. I believe in joy. And I believe in helping children see their value—no matter what language they speak, what color their skin, or what culture they happened to be born into. I believe that the unique traits each of us carries—our sensitivity, our passion, our creativity—aren’t random. They’re part of what equip us to carry out the work we’re here to do.

In a time when the world can feel divided, uncertain, and filled with noise—this kind of quiet, joyful affirmation matters more than ever.

Helping children feel seen, loved, and proud of who they are isn’t just a sweet activity. It’s a powerful act that can shape the future.

Let’s help every child grow up proud to be who they are.

🎁 Download Your Free Affirmation Cards:

Thank you for being a part of the TA-DA! family ,

Michelle

CEO & Founder, TA-DA!


My family’s latest stomping ground, new culture, new language, Frankfurt, Germany

One of the first dates with my little man exploring Frankfurt

🌍 About TA-DA! Language Productions

At TA-DA!, we bring languages and cultures to life—playfully, joyfully, and screen-free. Our tools are made for little learners (ages 0–14+), but the ripple effects last a lifetime.

We collaborate with linguists, psychologists, artists, musicians, and real schools around the world to create inclusive, research-backed resources that help kids build language skills and empathy. Our products are hands-on, easy to use, and crafted with love—because we believe every child deserves to grow up curious, confident, and connected to the world.

Learn more at tadalanguages.com

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