Positive affirmations are short statements we tell ourselves to boost our cognition in regards to motivation, self-confidence, self-esteem, perseverance, among others. Research (e.g., Farrell Sox, 2021; Haslip & Donaldson, 2019) has shown that people who use self-affirmations become more receptive to their errors and better able to correct their mistakes.
For us in education, this translates to better academic performance since students would be more open to learn from their mistakes. At the mental health level, studies (e.g., Farrell Sox, 2021) have shown that positive psychology interventions (including affirmations) can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve hope levels, and enhance subjective happiness.
To make these affirmations truly effective for your child, it’s important to implement them thoughtfully and consistently. According to Patricia Flokis’s research, which was referenced in Farrell & Sox’s (2021) study, there are eight key principles that can maximize the impact of positive affirmations. These guidelines help transform simple statements into powerful tools for building self-esteem and emotional resilience in children:
- Make them positive
- Keep them in the present tense
- Start with small shifts
- Follow through with action
- Use believable statements
- Place them in visible places
- Repeat often
- Check in with yourself regularly
Positive Affirmations for Kids
In this post, I compiled for you this collection of positive affirmations specifically for kids. Having a positive mindset is crucial for children’s emotional wellbeing and development. Research by Farrell & Sox (2021) shows that when children engage with positive self-talk in supportive environments, it can enhance their ability to learn from mistakes, boost their confidence, and help them develop emotional resilience.
I’ve organized these affirmations into five key areas that are essential for children’s emotional and personal development. Feel free to use them all or select the ones that resonate most with your child’s current needs.
Self-Confidence
- I believe in myself.
- I am brave and strong.
- I am confident and capable.
- I trust my instincts.
- I have unlimited potential.
- My voice matters.
- My opinions count.
- I can achieve my goals.
Growth Mindset
- I am a hard worker.
- I can do hard things.
- I get better every single day.
- I learn from every experience.
- I will never give up.
- My mistakes help me grow.
- It’s OK if I make mistakes.
- Each day is a fresh start.
- I can solve problems.
Self-Worth and Love
- I am worthy of love.
- I deserve to be loved.
- I am beautiful inside and out.
- I am unique and special.
- I only compare myself to myself.
- I am grateful for who I am.
- I respect myself and others.
- I choose love over fear.
Creativity and Intelligence
- I can think of great ideas.
- My creativity knows no bounds.
- My thoughts are valuable.
- I make good choices.
- My dreams matter.
Emotional Wellbeing
- I am peaceful and calm.
- I choose to be happy.
- My heart is full of love.
- My feelings are important.
- I can get through anything.
Relationships and Kindness
- I am a good friend.
- I am a good listener.
- I make people happy.
- I bring joy to others.
- My kindness makes a difference.
- I spread happiness wherever I go.
- My smile brightens others’ days.
- I am surrounded by love.
- My future is bright.
Here is an infographic I created capturing some of these positive affirmations for kids:
Related: Good Vibes Quotes to Spread Positive Energy
References
Farrell, G., & Sox, D. (2021). Positive Affirmations and Their Effect on Children’s Moods in an Elementary Classroom. Journal of Student Research, 10(3), 1-10. ISSN: 2167-1907. www.JSR.org
The paper also includes several important references that could be useful for further research on this topic, such as:
- Zhang, X.-Q., Zhang, B.-S., & Wang, M.-D. (2020). Application of a classroom-based positive psychology education course for Chinese medical students to increase their psychological well-being: a pilot study. BMC Medical Education, 20(1).
- Teodorczuk, K., Guse, T., & du Plessis, G. A. (2019). The effect of positive psychology interventions on hope and well-being of adolescents living in a child and youth care centre. British Journal of Guidance & Counselling, 47(2), 234–245.
- Haslip, M. J., Allen-Handy, A., & Donaldson, L. (2019). How do Children and Teachers Demonstrate Love, Kindness and Forgiveness? Findings from an Early Childhood Strength-Spotting Intervention. Early Childhood Education Journal, 47(5), 531–547.
- Flokis, P. (2013, October). Affirmations. Good Health
