Top 10 Positive Affirmations for Kids (and Adults)
Positive social and emotional development are most important in the first 5 years of a child’s life as it influences how they perceive the world, which in turn influences all other areas of development. A child’s self-esteem, ability to develop meaningful and lasting friendships and partnerships, and a sense of importance and value to those around him/her are all key areas that are impacted by their social and emotional development.
Affirmations can be a powerful tool to help in nurturing emotional wellbeing in childhood. It is never too early to start as these affirmations can be carried on through life, well into adulthood. Positive self talk can help combat intrusive negative thoughts which is something that everyone faces from time to time.
Here are our Top 10 Positive Affirmations for Kids (and Adults)
1. I believe in myself
It is easy to lose sight of your capabilities when trying something new or finding something difficult to do. But with the right attitude and our favorite affirmation, believing in oneself is half the battle won in overcoming almost any adversity.
2. I am loved
Saying “I love you” to your child often, on top of showing it, provides them a safe space. Having them affirm “I am loved”, acknowledging that they are loved helps them feel valuable and this is very important in the life of a child. It produces well-being in the present and also gives them hope and purpose to have a great future and achieve what they set out to do.
3. I am worthy
Having a sense of self worth means that you are aware that you deserve respect, love and acceptance in life regardless of your flaws. You embrace yourself for who you are and do not seek external validation for your successes.
4. I am kind to myself and others
“Kindness costs nothing, but means everything”. Kindness plays an important part in showing empathy and the reason why empathy is so important is that it helps us better understand how others are feeling, and even feel it in ourselves. It helps us maintain relationships and form genuine connections, which in turn will create an invaluable support system in life.
5. I will not compare myself to others
Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” and we have to agree. In the age of social media especially, young impressionable children can easily succumb to comparing themselves and their life to others. While it is important to note that not everything we see online is a reality, we also need to teach our kids that it is okay for others to have more or different things than they have.
6. I can ask for support and help
“Asking for help is never a sign of weakness. It's one of the bravest things you can do. And it can save your life.” Mental health awareness is more important today than it has been in the past and this is a great change in the world. Many youngsters, and even adults, have a misconception that needing help and support means that they are weak or incompetent. This mentality needs to be changed and addressed from as young as possible. A support system is what propels us to success and happiness. No man is an island.
7. I will make the most of today
It is easy to get distracted and procrastinate in doing important tasks, especially when it requires a lot of focus such as homework or studying. We always teach our children that time is of essence but another way to explain is “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today”. To make the most of the day guarantees progression and progress is what we strive for, not perfection.
8. My challenges help me grow
No one likes to struggle. Struggling is unpleasant and uncomfortable, but there is no growth without it. When we “save” children from struggle, we prevent them from reaching their full potential. It’s only through struggle that children learn to push past their comfort zone, develop persistence and problem-solving skills, and ultimately increase their capacity to reach goals and contribute to the world.
9. Its okay to make mistakes
There are no mistakes, only lessons. When a child makes a mistake, they become discouraged, disheartened and get tempted to give up. Affirming that it is okay to make mistakes builds strength in character and perseverance. And that is a key quality in leaders and mentors. It will help them to overcome any obstacles faced in life with confidence.
10. I am grateful for the life I have
A gratitude mindset is where your first thought is always one of positivity, rather than negativity. It helps you appreciate and feel thankful for what you have rather than always wanting more. It shifts your focus to others and how you can help others rather than only looking for personal gain. As Louis C.K. very wisely said “The only time you look in your neighbor's bowl is to make sure that they have enough. You don't look in your neighbor's bowl to see if you have as much as them.”
