The Power of Words
I’m a big believer in the power of words and thoughts. So, naturally I want my kids to have an understanding how the words they speak can change their mindset. Let’s talk about affirmations and kids.
Affirmations and Kids
I remember being a kid and trying to learn a new dance routine. See, I was in a dance group at the after-school center I went to. Let’s just say anyone could join J. I did not have the best coordination (I still don’t). But I wanted to be a-part of this because all of my friends were. I remember I kept telling myself that I was not good enough and that I would never get the routine.
The dance coach/teacher at the time could see my frustration and me about to give up.
She pulled me aside after practice and told me that I need to tell myself a different story. I need to use better words when I thought about the routine.
Unknowingly to me she was teaching me how to say affirmations. She told me to say “ I got this no matter how hard it is.” I remember this because I said those words and became less frustrated, I got in my own head and learned how to keep up with the steps, and at that moment I felt like I could achieve anything.
Those words very simple but made a huge difference in how I viewed the task and myself. It gave me confidence in moving forward in something that I probably would have gave up on.
It did not make me the best dancer but it made me a dancer.
I see this same fustrastion or look of defeat in my kids sometimes. It could be when they don’t understand homework or if they are playing a sport and it does not go as they would like.
It can be a long list of things that we need that extra encouragement on. But affirmations are not only needed in these situations. I believe they are needed before the day even starts.
We say affirmations every morning and then give ourselves reminders as needed throughout the day. Check out some morning affirmations my daughter says here
Why are affirmations Important
By being aware of the negative self-talk that creeps in all of our heads, affirmations are able to turn it down.
Affirmations can be an immeidiated mood booster. Changing simple words from negative to positive can really bring in peace and calmness.
It can help build self-confidence for kids.
*Affirmations for Kids
- I am Loved
- I am Kind
- I am Helpful
- I have family and friends who love me
- I can do it
- Today I am a leader
- I am Safe
I don’t like for my kids to use the phrase “I Can’t.” When I hear it I always correct them to use different words.
Replacement words for I Can’t
- I need more practice
- I need help
- I don’t understand
- I’ll keep trying
- I’m not sure, but I will try
We started by saying affirmations all together as a family. I would start and then we would around to each person. Also my daughter schools starts each day with affirmations. This has definitely helped with understanding the purpose of affirmations and how they can help. Now she walks around saying affirmations all day.
If you are new to affirmations maybe start by writing some down (do a google search) and say them together as a family. Once everyone is comfortable then ask them to create their own to say each day. The thing is, there is no wrong or right way to do this. The only rule is to stay positive.
*Does your kids already say affirmation? If not will you help your kids to start?
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