WHAT MAMA TOLD ME

A Read-Along Picture Book Aimed at Guiding Filipino Parents in Developing Healthy Self-Esteem in their Children

River Candelaria

The cultural effects of over three hundred years of colonization on the Philippines and its people can be found in all facets of Filipino life--including the development of self-perception and self-esteem. Many studies have explored how the influence of Western colonizers are still perpetuated until the present day, but when do these influences begin to affect a Filipino in their lifetime? This research proposes that colonial mentality begins to become apparent to children during the ages of 2-7 years old, when the world is being carefully studied by the child and symbolic meanings begin to become evident. This is also the beginning of self-esteem development in children. According to the interviews conducted by this research, the Western beauty standards which are imposed on young children carry on into adulthood. The effects are usually negative, as natural Filipino features do not typically match the Western standards. Self-esteem formed from youth then becomes negatively fixated on physical appearances as a measure of worth.

What Mama Told Me aims to assist parents in bolstering confidence in young children and focus their attention on kindness and creativity instead of physical appearances. It intends to change the parents’ systems of beliefs about what is physically appealing or superior, should their mindsets from childhood be heavily influenced by colonial mentality. This can positively affect their own self-esteem, beliefs, and values. Their children will learn about caring deeply about their community, feeling comfortable in their own skin, and looking towards the future in a positive way. They will feel confident, empathetic, and less conscious of their physical appearance. This will encourage their habits, interests, and social interactions.

River is an illustrator and graphic designer from the Philippines.

Email: river.villcan@gmail.com