Emily Chan
Studies have found that positive self-talk directly correlates to higher self-esteem in children. It also helps children improve their decision-making and problem-solving skills. Kids who speak positively about themselves and concentrate on their effort rather than their lack of ability will perform better on tests, projects, and in life.
How To Empower Kids With Positive Self-Talk
Self-talk is something that is taught, so if you’re trying to help your child engage in positive self-talk, it all starts with the messages they receive from their parents every day.
Parents often focus on what needs improvement, so they forget to celebrate what has already been accomplished. To nurture a positive inner dialogue in your child, first make them aware of the influence negative self-talk has on their lives.
Next, show them examples of what positive self-talk looks like through movies, books, or TV shows. Remind them that positive self-talk takes some practice to master.
You should also try to have regular conversations about what happened during their day. Even if they had a bad day, it’s still an opportunity to help them pick out any positive interactions and pinpoint what went well, pushing the focus off of the negative things.
Of course, if you want your child to learn positive self-talk, you must model it at home. Kids learn by observing their parents.
So, whenever you are experiencing a tough situation, try to model positive self-talk so your child can see it in action. Using phrases like “I will do my best” or “I like myself just the way I am” can play a huge role in their outlook on life and their mental well-being.
The process of developing a healthy habit, such as positive self-talk, is a gradual one. With time and patience, you can help instill this crucial life skill into your little one.
