Let's talk about a simple practice that can benefit your kids' daily lives: mindful affirmations.
Affirmations are special statements that can make a big difference in how your children feel and think. Whether it's to start their day with a positive mindset, regroup during the day, or wind down and relax at night, affirmations are a fantastic tool to help them build confidence and resilience.
So, what exactly are mindful affirmations?
Well, they're positive statements that can help children (and yes, even grown-ups) encourage themselves and boost their self-confidence. It's like giving their minds a quick and powerful workout, filling them with positivity, strength, and a sense of well-being. How awesome is that?
The power of positive thinking
When kids practice mindful affirmations regularly, they learn to approach life with a more positive mindset. It helps them build resilience and see their own worth and potential. Affirmation statements help them block out negativity and change their self-talk to be more forgiving, positive, and uplifting.
Now, let's dive into how you can get started with affirmations with your kids:
Step 1 - Relax with deep breathing.
Create a comfy space where your child can sit with their feet on the ground and their hands resting gently on their knees. Encourage them to take slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth. It's like filling up their lungs with peaceful air, helping them relax and stay focused.
Step 2 - Repeat the affirmations.
With their eyes closed and continuing the calm breathing, have your child say these affirmations out loud:
"I am brave and strong."
"I am in control of my thoughts and actions."
"I have great friends because I am a great friend."
"I am loved and cherished by God and my family." (If your family doesn't have a religious belief, just say "family.")
"Today, I will show myself love."
Step 3 - Reflect on the feelings.
After saying these affirmations, it's time to pause and think. Ask your child how these statements make them feel. It's okay if they don't fully believe them at first. The magic happens with repetition and reinforcement!
Step 4 - Make up your own affirmations.
Now it's time for some creativity! Encourage your kids to come up with their own special affirmation statements. These can change every day depending on their feelings or if they have something challenging coming up, like a test or a big game. Writing them down can be super helpful for remembering them later!
And as you wrap up the affirmations session, take a few more deep breaths together. It reinforces that sense of calm, positivity, and achievement.
Bottom Line
In as little as three minutes, you can help your child feel more positive and confident and boost their resilience. We encourage you to make these affirmations a part of their daily routine. Remember, every child is truly AMAZING in their own unique way!
So go ahead, give it a try and let these affirmations be a daily practice for your kids, offering them a quick and effective boost of positivity whenever they need it. You're doing an amazing job, parents and educators! Keep spreading that positivity and love.