Mac and Cheese are best friends, but when Cheese starts showing off and even poking fun at others, he stops acting like himself.

Mac and Cheese are best friends. When they are together, they get along really well. But when Cheese starts showing off, being silly, and even poking fun at others, he stops acting like himself. This annoys Mac. Mac helps Cheese realize that his friends like him just the way he is, and that being yourself is the best way to be.

Includes a Note to Parents, Caregivers, and Educators with advice and suggestions to support children being themselves.

From the Note to Parents, Caregivers, and Educators:

What Does It Mean to Be Yourself?

First, consider the phrase be yourself and talk with your child about what it means. Here are some things being yourself does not refer to:

• Trying to be the center of attention (like Cheese) by showing off, making fun of others, telling not-so-funny jokes, and trying too hard to fit in.
• Doing whatever you want (even if it's wrong).
• Being the best at everything you do.
• Only thinking of yourself and not others.
• Never failing or experiencing disappointment.
• Being happy all the time.

Instead, here's a sampling of what be yourself could mean:

• Matching your inside feelings and thoughts with your outside words and actions.
• Listening to what you like and dislike. It takes dedicated time to really know the answer to questions like What do I think about that? or How do I feel when that happens?
• Respecting your own opinions while sincerely listening to different ideas.
• Facing and coping with life's basic challenges while trying to improve all the time.
• Feeling comfortable in your own body and skin.
• Not worrying about others who judge, tease, or get upset if you don't do what they want.
• Taking responsibility for your actions without blaming others.
• Comparing who you are with that person you want to be, and not comparing yourself to others.
• Showing the world the real you.
• Being confident about your point of view.
• Having the courage to say what you think out loud and proud.

Being yourself can mean many things; this is not a comprehensive list. Can you and your child think of any others?