Say it, don’t think it

‍Words of Affirmation‍

Everyone likes to hear that they did a good job. The most important “Good jobs” stem from childhood.

I remember when my first grader brought home his semester one report card. As soon as he jumped in the car, he zipped open his backpack and handed me an envelope that read his name on it. His eyes were beaming and his smile was spread on his face from ear to ear. “Straight A’s?!” My mouth hung open, as I scanned the report card. I looked up at him and gave him a big hug, “I am so proud of you! You are so smart!”

I also remember his second grade report card. I remember how quiet he was when he slid into the backseat and buckled up his seatbelt. “How was school?” I asked him, observing his behavior. “Good,” he answered as his eyes were focused outside of the car window. “Did your teacher give you your report card?” Quietly, he unzipped his backpack and reluctantly handed me an envelope, his eyes still refusing to meet mine. I opened it and scanned his report card, and before I was able to mutter a word, tears streamed down his eyes. Because his report card was not the best, it was important to acknowledge what he did wrong, but also how he can fix it, and to motivate his self-worth to ensure he knows he is smart enough to get the grades he wants.

As a parent, your words have a powerful impact on your child’s growth and development into adulthood.

Words of affirmation help boost and shape a child’s confidence.

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‍Here are a few words of affirmations for ANY age:‍

• “You look handsome/beautiful!”

Boosting up your child’s physical appearance will help shape the foundation of their self-esteem as they grow up. However, it is important to remember that the non-physical affirmations are just as important as the physical ones.

• “I know you can do it!”

Believing someone can do something, whether or not they believe in themselves at that moment, will help push them to action.

• “Today is a new day.”

Everyone has bad days. It is important to remind your child to not hold onto negative thoughts and emotions for too long.

• “I’m so proud of you!”

A child’s desire to have a parent feel proud of them starts at a young age. When your child accomplishes something, express it!

• “You are so smart.”
• “You are so creative.”
• “That picture looks so beautiful.”
• “Can you teach me how to draw a house like that?”

Even quotes such as, “Fall seven times, get up eight.”‍

Watering the Seed‍

Because each child is unique, there are so many ways you can positively impact your child with your words. The longer you wait to verbally express your thoughts to your child, the harder it is for your child to receive these affirmations.

Start now to change their tomorrow.

“The longer you wait to verbally express your thoughts to your child, the harder it is for your child to receive these affirmations.”