Some days, as moms, it feels like we spend more time correcting than connecting. Between school drop-offs, meltdowns, chores, and all.the.reminders, it’s easy to forget how meaningful our everyday words are to our kids.
But the right words—spoken consistently—can shape how your kids see themselves.
Based on pioneering work by developmental psychologist Lev Vygotsky, we know that the way we speak to our kids becomes the voice they use to speak to themselves. Children internalize the language they hear from caregivers, first using it as “private speech” (talking aloud to themselves), then as “inner speech” (the internal voice that guides their thoughts and behavior).
Warm, supportive communication is associated with stronger emotional health and self-esteem, while consistent encouragement helps shape a child’s confidence.
Pick a few of these 20 positive affirmations to speak over your child. Repeating the same few phrases helps those truths sink in and become part of your child’s identity. Start with one or two and use them later today.
- I love you. (You can never tell kids this enough.)
- I appreciate you.
- I believe in you.
- I love how you care about others.
- I’m proud of you and of who you are.
- My life is better with you in it.
- You are enough just as you are.
- You are fun to have around.
- You are excellent at ________.
- God has a purpose and plan for your life.
- You are beautiful/handsome.
- You are courageous.
- You are wonderfully unique.
- You are talented.
- You are a good friend.
- You have really great ideas.
- You are a gift to our family.
- You are a great kid. It’s a privilege to know you.
- You make a positive difference wherever you go.
- I love the sound of your voice.
Here are 100 more affirmations in case you need even more ideas!
What are some other great affirmations to tell your kids? How have positive affirmations benefitted your own life?
