10 phrases to say to children every day



Instill valuable life skills and boost their self-esteem

10 phrases to say to children every day


As parents, you play a pivotal role in shaping your child’s character, confidence, and overall development. Every interaction is an opportunity to instill valuable life skills and boost their self-esteem. By incorporating these 10 phrases to say to children into your daily conversations, you can empower your kiddo to embrace challenges, develop a positive self-image, and thrive in all areas of life!

1. “I believe in you.” 

Starting the day with a heartfelt affirmation like this lets your child know you have unwavering faith in their abilities. It instills a sense of self-worth and encourages them to tackle tasks with enthusiasm and determination.

2. “Mistakes are opportunities to learn.” 

By reframing mistakes as learning experiences, you help your child develop a growth mindset. This phrase teaches them that setbacks are not failures, but rather stepping stones on the path to success.

3. “What do you think?” 

Fostering critical thinking is crucial for your child’s cognitive development. Asking for their opinions encourages them to express their thoughts, consider alternatives, and become more independent decision-makers.

4. “You can always ask for help.” 

Instill the importance of seeking assistance when needed. This phrase encourages your child to overcome challenges by seeking guidance from trusted sources, promoting problem-solving skills and humility.

5. “I’m proud of your effort.” 

Recognizing your child’s hard work and perseverance rather than focusing solely on outcomes boosts their self-esteem. This phrase emphasizes the value of effort, dedication, and the journey toward achieving their goals.

READ MORE: 3 tips to boost your children's self-esteem this school year

6. “Kindness is important.” 

Promote empathy and compassion by emphasizing the significance of kindness. Reminding your child to be considerate and understanding towards others helps them build strong interpersonal skills and develop meaningful relationships.

7. “You get better every single day.” 

Encourage a mindset of continuous improvement by letting your child know that there’s always room to grow. This phrase nurtures resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace challenges head-on.

8. “Your opinions matter.” 

Validate your child’s thoughts and feelings by reminding them that their voice is valued. This phrase nurtures their self-expression and confidence to share their ideas in various contexts.

9. “I love spending time with you.” 

Affirm your unconditional love and create a strong emotional bond. Expressing your enjoyment of their company boosts their self-assurance and sense of belonging.

10. “Dream big.” 

Inspire your child to set ambitious goals and pursue their passions. This phrase cultivates creativity, ambition, and the belief that they can achieve remarkable things with dedication and perseverance.

Your words have the power to shape your child’s outlook on life, build their self-confidence, and equip them with essential life skills. By integrating these 10 phrases into your daily interactions, you’re fostering an environment of growth, positivity, and empowerment. As you continue to communicate these messages, you’re nurturing their academic progress, emotional well-being, and lifelong success.



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