The Me I See: Learning Through Writing and Reflection

The Me I See is a simple, thorough collection of journaling prompts placed in an accessible workbook template. The pages are full of thought-provoking prompts in an inviting format with a sense of whimsy and fun that is far less intimidating than the blank page. These pages are conveniently reproducible and can be used alone or combined with photos and artwork to make writing fun, creative, and engaging.

The book is organized by subject, starting with the me I see and progressing through subjects such as values, past, family, and social. Each subject area starts with lighter, easier-to-process prompts followed by more challenging ones. Choose the prompts that are appropriate for your class, group, or individual.

The Me I See was designed to be used by educators, counselors, and therapists as a tool to help adolescents express themselves, reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and motivations, and explore the issues that shape their lives. The journaling exercises will help them learn about who they are as individuals. The exercises will give them some insights to cope with the stressors of being an adolescent and to interact positively with the world around them.

Educators will find The Me I See useful for engaging students in all kinds of classroom situations from exploring issues and topics in health class, social curriculum, and peer leadership programs to English or Civics class. Therapists will find this tool valuable for helping adolescent clients work through their thoughts and emotions as they explore the cathartic aspect of journaling. The Me I See can also be the perfect supplement to group therapy sessions by providing opportunities for adolescents to engage in structured time alone, to reflect and process. This time away from the group balances and supports the group process. Individuals can reflect on topics that might not have come up during group discussion and explore thoughts they might not verbalize in a group setting.

Rachel Poliner is an educational consultant working with schools in the U.S. on advisory programs, social and emotional learning (SEL), high school redesign, leadership and change. A former teacher and program leader of Educators for Social Responsibility, she is the author of The Advisory Guide, Conflict Resolution in the Middle School Student Workbook, and Journal and Dialogue: Turning Controversy into Community.

Jennifer Roberts is a high school social worker helping students and families struggling with a wide range of personal and social issues. Her practice includes individual and group counseling. She has helped create a high school advisory program, a reentry protocol for students who return to school after hospitalization, and support systems for crises and tragedies.