Hello mindi14,
Welcome to Apple Support Communities!
We want to help so you can use Memoji on your iPhone like you want.
We want to make sure you're using these steps to send the Memoji:
"Send animated Memoji or Memoji recordings
On supported models you can send Memoji messages that use your voice and mirror your facial expressions.
- In a conversation, tap
, then choose a Memoji. - Tap
to record your facial expressions and voice. Tap the red square to stop recording. - Tap Replay to review your message.
- Tap
to send your message or
to cancel.
You can also take a picture or video of yourself as a Memoji, decorate it with stickers, then send it; see Add camera effects to a photo or video. Or you can become a Memoji in a FaceTime conversation."
This Apple Support page has the full details: Use Memoji in Messages on iPhone - Apple Support
If the issue remains, check for any pending iOS updates, which can help make sure the software is working as expected. This Apple Support page can help get those updates installed: Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
We hope this helps to quickly resolve the software issue and get Memoji working normally again.
Cheers!