School Counselor Writes Book That Connects Children to Their Barber
“I Am African & I Can” is a women’s empowerment blog highlighting stories of black women’s struggles and successes.
By Hadiatou Wann | 03/27/20
Originally from North Carolina, Stephanie Sherer M.Ed. attended an elementary school where she was one of very few black kids in the class. She was gifted and stood out from the rest. Growing up, Stephanie struggled with figuring out her identity and recalls looking through magazines and picking out other people she wanted to be like. When she got to middle school, there was more diversity, but she still didn’t feel like she could fit in and be accepted for who she is. But as she matured, she learned to take pride in who she is and worked on finding her voice and the people she can relate to.
After graduating college with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Stephanie became a teacher in under performing schools (teaching 4th and 5th graders who were all girls). She loved it, but realized that she spent most of her time talking to students about things that were going on outside of school. “If students’ needs aren’t met, they can’t function academically,” Stephanie said. This motivated her to become a school counselor.
During her junior and senior year of high school, Stephanie had a great counselor who helped steer her in the right direction. She wanted to do the same for others. After completing graduate school, she became a school counselor.
“It takes an outgoing person to get kids out of their shell. You have to build a solid relationship with them. kids don’t know how much you know until they know how much you care,” Stephanie explained.
One of the ways Stephanie builds a bond with students is by finding out what makes them happy and which adult they look up to. Everything the students discuss with her remains confidential, unless a student discloses something that could be harmful to them or someone else.
Since the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, Stephanie has been working remotely.
“Working from home is very different. Everything is done virtually and even though you can see your scholars virtual through things like zoom and Face Time, working from home takes away the personal contact/interaction piece. As educators, we love our scholars and look forward to seeing our scholars daily, so this is tough. But safety first, we will get through this,” she expressed.
While many students are dealing with a sudden shift in the method of learning and experiencing living in quarantine for the first time, Stephanie wants students to remain positive.
“Stay positive and focus on only the things you can control. We can't control what is happening, but we can do our part. We can control our mindset. Try one mindfulness activity daily. Engage in learning activities daily, but be easy on yourself. Also spend time doing things you enjoy and get some sun when you can,” she advised.
Stephanie has another calling. Last year, she published her first children’s book called “My Barber and Me.” A day before her son’s first haircut, she wanted to help her son prepare for the moment, but there wasn’t a book available to assist her son.
As Stephanie watched her brother, who is a barber, give her son his first haircut, she was touched by their bond and realized that there are books about the first day of going to school, the dentist, but there wasn’t anything about going to the barber for the first time. That’s what inspired her to pen “My Barber and Me,” a picture book that explains the process and emotions of getting a haircut for the first time.
Thus far, Stephanie had book signings at barbershops and connected with barbers. “My Barber and Me” helps calm children’s nerves so they can enjoy the process of getting their first haircut, and also makes barbers feel they’ve played an important role in kids’ lives.
Shay Haley, Stephanie’s close friend says, “Stephanie is such a positive and genuine spirit. She is an example of determination and perseverance. She does so much for her community and family and always does so much with optimism and a smile. She presents with grace, elegance and strength in all that she does.”
“Stephanie has triumphed over many difficulties and obstacles, yet has never let past adversities hinder or taint her progression. She walks in confidence and authenticity. She’s strong advocate for many and I’ve never witnessed her operate out of hate or maliciousness. Stephanie has a beautiful aura and is a true gift to many,” Shay added.
Stephanie is a first generation college graduate, and now the first to write a book that connects children to their barber. She’s shown that if there isn’t a book that reflects your views or interests, write the book! She aspires to write more children’s books to highlight the cultural experiences of brown boys and work on projects that help women find their purpose. Already onto the next project, Stephanie is currently finishing up her second book that she is being featured in, “ Graced for It Devotional: Volume 1: Your Purpose Matters.”
Welcome to Stephanie’s World
“Do it afraid! The very thing that makes you afraid is the thing you should do. I am willing to address fear and discomfort to achieve all of that I set out to do.”
Stephanie loves spending time with her family, listening to audible books, and traveling. Her goal is to travel to at least one country a year.
“Parenthood has taught me to be more patient. Every child is different. You have to do what works for you as a parent.”
“We all have a responsibility to people that look up to us.”
“My favorite thing about writing books is the freedom of it all. The creativity of it all. The outlet to express all of your thoughts and ideas, uninhibited. ”
Connect with Stephanie:
Facebook: Stephanie Sherer
Instagram: @stephtheauthor
Email: sherer.stephanie@gmail.com
You can purchase “My Barber and Me” here: https://www.amazon.com/My-Barber-Me-Stephanie-Sherer/dp/1948829282/ref=sr_1_1?
Read other success stories here: www.iamafricanandican.info/blog
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