Hello Friends,
This might be one of the bravest things I have ever written. Why? Because I’m talking about something special that I’ve created.
This is scary for two reasons:
It feels scary because the events that led me here are so personal. It’s the deepest thing inside of me.
I have a fear of promoting something I’ve made. I think many women share this fear.
But I’m still going to share. Why? Because I don’t want kids to suffer.
Not wanting kids to suffer is the reason that I created the Quest for Self-Compassion Workbooks for kids. The truth is, when I was a kid, I suffered. I had some wonderful things that happened during my childhood, but there was definitely suffering. And nobody taught me how to be with difficult feelings.
So I abandoned myself and became superficial. In my teens, I developed an eating disorder and an alcohol addiction. I didn’t know how to be with my suffering, so I tried to circumvent it. It wasn’t until I found self-compassion that I truly began to recover from all the pain.
From the deepest place inside of me, I want to help kids suffer less. Unfortunately, experiencing pain is a part of life. But we don’t have to suffer alone. We can bring self-compassion to our pain, and we can teach kids and grown-ups how to do this.
Initially, I created a self-compassion class for kids and caregivers that research shows helps kids with difficult feelings, including anxiety and depression. But the problem is that not every family can take a class. So, I dedicated myself to creating a workbook that would be available for every child.
I have deep gratitude to the twelve fabulous kids who helped me create this masterpiece. The Quest for Self-Compassion workbooks have already helped hundreds of kids in Milwaukee Public Schools understand that they are not alone and learn to be kind to themselves when things are hard. And the best part is that it’s so playful that kids enjoy doing it.
Here’s a quote from a mother-daughter pair who recently completed the series of books:
Child: "Sometimes, I actually want to do the workbook because it really helps me…I think it’s fun that there are pictures of real kids by the quotes that those kids said.”
Mom: "After working through the activities in the workbooks, I observe that my eight-year old is gradually more open to practicing self-compassion when she is having a hard time. I don't notice huge, amazing changes, but I do notice changes that I believe will be long-lasting and will genuinely help her into adulthood. Completing this workbook for my daughter helps me feel like she is going to be okay!"
That’s my wish for every parent and child: that they know that they are going to be okay. Yes, we will go through hard things, but self-compassion is a resource that can hold us and help us know that we are okay no matter what.
Right now a team of kids and grown-ups is helping me finish revisions on the first workbook. Over the summer, supporters who believe in the mission (maybe you?) will be reviewing the book and sharing about it with others. Then in October, we’ll officially launch workbook #1. I feel scared and brave and terrified and hopeful and delighted. And I’m going to keep being brave and sharing about the Quest for Self-Compassion.
But one step at a time. Will you join me in this mission to help kids suffer less? All that I ask right now is for your support. “Yes, I’m with you. Yes, I believe that we can help kids to suffer less.” We will need a team of believers to make this happen. We are in this together….I know it in my heart.
Wishing you light and love (and less suffering!),
Jamie Lynn
P.S. I listened to the song, “Brave,” by Sara Bareilles to help me send this post. It’s pretty inspiring. You can check it out and do something brave too :)
Congratulations! Such a fantastic offering for kids -- I've been excited and so hopeful to see people like you who are trying to make self-compassion talk and practices part of life for young human mammals too! My own experience is it seems like my child gets quite a bit of exposure and encouragement to extend compassion to her peers and others, but not so much herself. And she tends to be harsh with herself (at 5!) when she makes mistakes. So the need for the self-compassion muscle seems to arise early. Good luck with your work book!
Jamie Lynn, you are so courageous, compassionate and wholehearted! These kids are so lucky to get what our generation couldn't. I thank you and commend you for all your hard work and unstoppable dedication! May you always find courage as you continue to be rooted in love and compassion! 🙏✨💜