By: Zelenka Boyd
“I am smart, I am kind, I can do anything!”
I taught this phrase to my kids when they were 3 and 4. We call this our daily affirmation and we say it every morning before we leave the house. It has been a part of our morning routine for about a year now and I have already seen the positive effect that it is having on them.
The dictionary’s definition of affirmation is the assertion that something exists or is true.
Affirmations show God that our belief and faith in ourselves is way bigger than any doubt could ever be.
Builds self confidence
Children are like sponges and they’re the most impressionable between the ages of 6 and 14. This is the time in which what we teach them and the things that we do around them are the most imperative. Affirmations help build confidence in kids and help them to approach life situations with a “can do” attitude instead of “I can’t”.
Helps with behavioral issues
A child who has no encouragement and positive reinforcement at home is more likely to have behavioral issues. Not having someone to support them and praise them for the great things that they do and inspire them to be their best, opens the door to more behavior problems. Giving a child a sense of security about who they are and what they can accomplish just by teaching them a few short phrases to report throughout the day, shows them how much confidence you have, and build their self-confidence as well.
Builds a strong sense of independence
An independent child who knows exactly who they are and is very aware of the qualities that they possess, is one who can stand alone when it comes to doing what is right and fair. It promotes a sense of self sufficiency and leadership. It means that when it’s time for your child to step up to the plate and do what’s right, without you being around, you can count on them to do so.
Having a positive influence on their peers
With bullying playing such a huge role in the problem in some school systems today, affirmations could at least be the start of putting an end to this matter. Raising children who build their self esteem by reciting affirmations could, in turn, influence some of their peers to treat each other better, and cause an all-around positive effect in their environment.
Stress reliever for parents
Not only will affirmations have a positive effect on your children, but in turn it could help you out in many ways as well. Having a child who is happier and better-behaved leads to you being less stressed and a little more relaxed as a parent. Parenting is hard enough, so why not try and cut some stress out when you can.
Finding the perfect affirmations for your kids doesn’t have to be hard or time consuming. No one knows your kids better than you; you know their strengths, their weakness and what makes them smile. It’s all a matter of teaching them to believe in themselves and the power that they possess. Teaching them that their words can cut like a sword or be as sweet as honey depending on how they choose to use them is key. Teach them to speak life.
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