Our words have power
Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. –Proverbs 16:24
A person’s words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook. –Proverbs 18:4
“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” –Mother Teresa
Words do have power. The power we have when we speak is life changing. In fact, words of patience, kindness, and love are essential to the well-being, mental health, and emotional stability of every child.
Imagine the life-giving potential of the follow five phrases:
1) I love you
Sadly, many children have never heard these three important words. Yet, these words are the most important words that they need to hear. We can’t say “I love you” to a child too many times. These powerful words remind children that they are valuable, that they matter, and that someone truly cares for them. Find creative ways to say them verbally, non-verbally, in writing, through music, you name it!
2) I’m proud of you
Children need a cheerleader. They need to know that someone believes in them. They need to know that what they do matters—and that they matter. When you tell a child that you are proud of them, it encourages them to work even harder. Celebrate each success a child has, no matter how small it might be. Go out of your way to look for ways to celebrate your child!
3) I’m sorry
When I make a mistake or when I disappoint or hurt a child in some way, it is important for me to say that I’m sorry. Pride should never get in the way of this. We should never be too proud to ask a child for forgiveness. Not only are we letting children know that we acknowledge we made poor choices, but that we regret doing so. Modeling this type of honesty and humility will likely reap far reaching benefits in your child’s life.
4) I forgive you
Children are bound to make mistakes. We all do. Forgiveness is a powerful gift that we can give each other, and one we certainly need to give to our children. Love and forgiveness are two actions that are intertwined; they cannot be separated. Without forgiveness, there is no love. When a child makes a mistake or makes a poor choice, they need to hear that they are forgiven. They need to hear from their parents that no matter what, you forgive them, and you love them.
5) I am thankful for you
Think of something positive to say to your child every day. Go out of your way to notice something unique and special about who they are or what they’ve accomplished. Whether it’s complimenting them for their gentle and kind spirit or for volunteering to unload the dishwasher, realize how much your children cherish words of gratefulness, “Thank you” reminds the child that what they are doing is recognized and appreciated. It matters. And they matter.
