The words children hear can shape the way they see themselves, and physician and children’s author Dr. Tiffanie Tate explores that idea in her new picture book, Perfectly Perfect.
Written for children under 12, the book uses an age-appropriate story about friendship, bullying, apologies and self-talk to encourage conversations about kindness, confidence and self-worth. Tate hopes the story will give parents, caregivers and educators a starting point for discussing how words can affect both others and the way children ultimately speak to themselves.
At the center of Perfectly Perfect is a young girl who begins struggling with her body image and eventually stops eating. Her friends respond with compassion, helping her recognize something she has lost sight of: Her value has never depended on her appearance.
Through rhythmic language and relatable characters, Tate addresses subjects that can be difficult for adults to discuss with young children, including self-image, comparison and unhealthy attitudes toward food and appearance.
Tate describes the pressure to be “perfect” as an issue that can affect children’s well-being, particularly in an environment where social media can expose young people to unrealistic images and constant comparisons.
Rather than simply focusing on changing a child’s behavior, Perfectly Perfect encourages adults to consider the conversations and messages surrounding children. The book promotes approaching sensitive subjects with openness and curiosity while emphasizing what the body can do — grow, play, learn and think — rather than focusing solely on appearance.
The story also emphasizes the importance of choosing words carefully. Children learn not only from what adults tell them, but also from the ways they hear people speak to one another and the language they eventually use with themselves.
“Perfectly Perfect is about raising healthier humans,” Tate said. “The story helps children understand they do not have to earn their value; they already have it.”
The book is Tate’s latest children’s title. Her previous works include Bad Touching, which introduces age-appropriate lessons about personal safety; Little Engine Mia Sings, which addresses bullying; and Money Matters, which introduces children to financial literacy.
Originally from Compton, California, Tate is a retired OB/GYN and former U.S. Navy medical officer. She has also worked as a community volunteer and lecturer, speaking to students, medical residents and community organizations.
Perfectly Perfect is published by Christian Faith Publishing and is available through Amazon.
With its focus on empathy, friendship and positive self-talk, Perfectly Perfect encourages children to recognize their own value while reminding adults that the words spoken today can become part of a child’s inner voice tomorrow.
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