Smiling Doesn't Mean I'm Happy

Sometimes, kids smile when they’re happy. But sometimes... they don’t.
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Children may smile when they’re unsure, nervous, or even hurting inside. For some, a smile becomes a way to stay safe or please others. That’s why it’s so important that we, as adults, look beyond the surface.
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A smile might be hiding sadness, fear, and many times shame. The key is to create spaces where kids feel safe to say, “I’m not okay,” and know that I am still loved no matter the emotions shared.
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