How to Explain Positive Affirmations to Kids

Raising kids in this fast paced world, full of technology, tragedy and hands off/hands on learning is not for the faint of heart. Now throw in the emotional toil of life itself and we've officially jumped completely off the richter scales. That's why affirmations are a lifesaver. Literally. And I do mean literally. With the barrage of negative images, negative words and negative energy that our children are facing, we have to equip them with the power to fight back. Learning how to explain positive affirmations to kids will give YOU and THEM that power!

Mom looking up at her smiling daughter, confident in the affirmations that she has taught her to use.

Okay, let's get down to business, here are some practical tips to get you started with learning how to explain positive affirmations to kids!

Step 1: Break It Down

Start by explaining what affirmations are in the most simple terms that you could find. For example: Affirmations are positive statements that you repeat to yourself to build self-confidence and positive thinking. You know your child best. Use language that your child will understand. If your little one is very literal (like mine), stick to the text book version. If your child is more receptive to flowery language, than add fun phrases here and there to help them understand. Affirmations are like giving yourself a big, warm hug with words to make you feel good and strong.

Step 2: Follow Up With Crafting Their Own Affirmations

Reinforce the definition that you just taught by coming up with some personal affirmations. Brainstorm phrases that reflect their strengths and aspirations, such as "I am brave," "I am smart," or "I am a good friend." Writing these down in a special journal or using a blank art canvas to design their affirmation can make this process interactive and enjoyable.

Step 3: Practice Makes Perfect

What's the best way to create a healthy habit? Taking the time to repeat the action over and over and over again. Help your child to create a positive start to every day by encouraging them to recite their affirmations each morning. Make it as normal and repetitive as brushing their teeth or tying their shoes. If you can, try to have them recite their affirmations in the mirror. Seeing themselves in the mirror will also reinforce that they are talking about themselves and help them to remember that the affirmations are for them!

Step 4: Dive Deep, Explore Affirmations Through Reading

Child holding his copy of "Affirmations A-Z: For You, Me & Everybody" by Gabrielle French Allen

Say it with me, "Reading is Reinforcement!". One more time, so those in the back can hear us, "Reading is Reinforcement!". One of the best things that you could do for your child is to encourage them to read books. Looking for additional material to help you explain positive affirmations to kids? Books are the way to go! The reading is allowing their brains to absorb the affirmation in a different format and the fun illustrations that can be found in a children's book, will draw them in and keep them engaged. There's a wealth of books available that center around affirmations and you can start your list off by reading my book "Affirmations A-Z: For You, Me & Everybody". My book offers 26 affirmations for little & big kids that span the alphabet from A-Z! Reading this book or any book that centers on affirmations can help kids to find a deeper meaning in affirmations and to discover new ones that they haven't seen or heard before, expanding their knowledge and affirmation vocabulary!

Step 5: Welcome To The Real World

Apply, Apply, Apply! When the going gets tough, guide your child in applying affirmations during those challenging times. Whether facing academic pressures, social concerns, or personal hurdles, affirmations can and will help them to build up the mental fortitude to persevere. Craft affirmations that speak directly to their challenge. "I am intelligent.", "I can make friends." This application will underscore the practical value of affirmations, showing how positive self-talk can be a source of comfort and confidence.

You did it! You just learned 5 steps to help your child learn all about affirmations!

Now, time to affirm yourself. Say it with me, "I have the power to empower my child because I know how to explain affirmations to kids!".