What we frequently hear about ourselves when we're children, can become part of our internal voice for the rest of our lives. Set your kids up for success by equipping them with positive, affirming words that remind them just how wonderful, unique, and important they are!
Whether we mean to or not, it's easy for gender stereotypes to limit our go-to descriptive words, so referencing a list of positive affirmations can help make sure 'lil bruisers hear that they are gentle, and little princesses remember that they're strong and brave.
Here's are 12 positive affirmations that EVERY kid deserves to hear, every day!
1. You are kind.
Is there anything more praiseworthy than a child's choice to be kind to others, even when it might not be easy? Reminding them of their kindness is a great way to let them know you see and value their gentle heart.
2. You are brave.
It's always great to remember that being brave isn't the same thing as not being afraid. Whether it's being brave enough to read out loud in school, or brave enough to go use the potty alone, bravery is a choice worth celebrating.
3. Your words matter.
It's easy for small people to feel like their little voices aren't heard, or aren't important. Reminding them that even the smallest voices count (and showing them by listening with your full attention) is one way to help raise bold kids willing to speak up for the truth.
4. You are special.
Especially on the days when they might feel like they blend into the background, every kid needs to hear that they're special, unique, and that this world would not be the same place without them!
5. You have great ideas.
If your kids are anything like mine, they probably have about 794 new brilliant ideas every single day. It's easy to get "amazing idea" fatigue. But hearing that their thoughts and ideas are valued is a great way to raise kids that keep on thinking outside the box, right into adulthood. And that's a great skill to have.
6. You are so creative.
Let your little one know that you value their artistic sense and creativity. It's so easy to start getting self-conscious about art and creativity as kids get older, and reminding them how creative they are is a good way to help them not lose that artistic self-identity.
7. You are a good friend.
The quality of being a good friend is something that serves us well all our lives. It's definitely something to praise when we see it in our kids, and something to let them know is a valuable trait that we really appreciate!
8. You can do hard things.
There are always going to be things that seem hard, and that make us want to give up. Reminding our kids that they can persevere, and that we see that strength in them, can help raise resilient kids.
9. You are smart.
It's easy for kids to get down on themselves, especially if they have a hard day in school or bring home a grade that's not what they hoped for. Help over-ride any self-deprecating inner narrative, by reminding them how smart they are. With some perseverance they can do this!
10. You are responsible.
Reminding kids that they have the ability to choose how they handle situations throughout the day is empowering. Sometimes it's hard, especially in moments where they may feel overwhelmed or disregulated. But they can always take a moment to still their body, breathe, and make a choice they're going to feel good about later.
11. You are fun.
Being "the fun one" comes naturally to some kids. To others, it might feel like they're just never as playful, funny, or outgoing as the class clown. Every kid deserves to hear that they're FUN to be with, and that spending time with them is a joy.
As a classroom volunteer, some of my favorite moments have been seeing faces light up with smiles, when I tell "the quiet kid" how much fun I've had with them today.
12. You are so very loved.
Knowing that they are treasured and cherished, no matter what, is one of the best things any grownup can instill a child. It's also linked with increased happiness and less anxiety. Here are a few more studies about the long-term benefits of feeling loved as a child.
Hopefully this list of affirmations is helpful. Don't feel you have to go through the whole list every day, but it can be a great way to get un-stuck if you're running dry on ways to encourage your child! If you're out of practice, it's ok. Pick one. Or two. Find a moment when you can look your little one in the eye, and say "You are such a good friend. I'm really proud of you."
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Anna Chesley is a freelance writer living a homestead lifestyle, with a special love for family travel, old books, vintage skills, and seaside living. In addition to founding Salt In My Coffee, she runs the website, New England Family Life, as well as The 1800's Housewife, a website devoted to re-creating authentic 1800's recipes.
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