Instill your children with confidence! Daily positive affirmations help kids develop a kind and empathetic inner dialogue, in addition to a positive self-view. High self-esteem has many benefits, such as feeling comfortable acting independently, treating themselves and others with respect, and keeping relationships with positive influences. Who doesn’t want that for their kids? Help them develop a healthy mindset with these positive affirmations, and fun ideas to send the message! 

What is a positive affirmation? Good question! Positive affirmations are simple statements that reflect positive ideas about oneself. The idea is to counter negative self-talk, but they’re most affective before the negative thoughts start; if the negativity starts to creep in, your child can reflect on the positive values they’ve been practicing. The key is to be consistent with affirmations: one a day can do wonders for your child’s self-esteem!  

Examples of positive affirmations include: 

I am a leader 

Being myself is fun 

I stand up for what I believe in 

I am kind, and I deserve kindness 

I am capable of anything I set my mind to 

Mistakes are a part of learning 

I bring unique qualities to the table 

Doing my best is enough 

All my problems have solutions 

I have my own talents 

I am equal to my peers 

I am a good friend 

It’s fun to get creative with them too! Tailor them to your child so they will really resonate. For example, if your child struggles with math, they might benefit from affirmations that remind them how learning is a process, and math is not too big for them to conquer.  

How to work positive affirmations into your child’s day: 

Repeat affirmations in the mirror with your child 

This is the classic way to recite and repeat affirmations. Say your affirmation to yourself in the mirror, then invite your child to say something positive to their reflection. If your child feels awkward doing so, keep saying affirmations to your reflection until they feel more relaxed. If they still don’t feel comfortable, you can start saying affirmations to their reflection, or you can leave a sticky note on the mirror for them to read quietly to themselves. 

Lunchbox notes 

This is a great way to remind your child of their positive qualities while they’re out of the house, especially if your child is facing difficulties in school. Remind them they’re smart before a test, tell them they inherently deserve kindness if they’re having trouble with a classmate, and make them feel loved even when there’s nothing new going on.  Those reminders can help combat negative self-talk and make for a great emotional pick-me-up! 

Sing along to positive songs 

There are tons of positive affirmation songs written just for kids, but you don’t have to stop there! Popular songs like “Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift and “Everybody” by Ingrid Michaelson are simple and repetitive songs that are basically fun, long-form affirmations. Singing along in the car or dancing around the living room can be fun and engaging ways to help your child feel happy and empowered. 

Arrange word magnets 

Before or after breakfast, have your child arrange some word magnets on the fridge to make the affirmation they need that day. It can be as simple as they need, like “I am kind” or “today is good,” and encourage them to read you their affirmation to you once they’re done.  

Read affirmation books together 

There are so many books out there that will help your child form a healthy, happy mindset! 

Talk about your child’s favorite characters 

Talk with your child about their favorite characters in their favorite movies, TV shows, games, and books. Ask your child what they like about the character–are they brave? Are they compassionate? Are they funny? Tell your child they are all those things too, and to think of their favorite character when they’re feeling challenged or sad. What would (character) do?  

Ask questions about your child’s day 

When asking about school, ask questions regarding their affirmations. How did you demonstrate kindness today? What’s something you did that makes you a good friend? This will get them to think deeper about their actions and prove that affirmations aren’t just words–they really are kind, they are a good friend.