How To Build Healthy Self-Talk In Kids

Encouraging positive self-talk and emotional growth in children

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In This Week’s Newsletter:

  • Quote of The Week - “The way that we talk to our children becomes their inner voice.” - Peggy O’Mara

  • Javaree Talks - How to encourage positive self-talk and emotional growth

  • Good On Social - Leadership advice

  • In The News - Top stories from last week

  • Q&A Corner - New Section to

  • Dad Joke Of The Week - I’m thinking about Thanksgiving

JAVAREE TALKS

The Power of Words in Parenting: Shaping Self-Talk for Life

Our words to our children lay the groundwork for their inner dialogue. Phrases like “You’re so messy” or “You always spill your food” can instill a harmful self-talk habit that persists into adulthood. However, we can foster a sense of responsibility without instilling shame by shifting from labels to behavior-focused language. For instance, saying, “I see spaghetti on the floor—can you help clean it up?” not only promotes collaboration over criticism but also sets the stage for more positive self-talk in the future.

Tips to Avoid Shaming Language:

  • Be Specific, Not Personal: Focus on the action, not identity. Say, “That wasn’t kind,” instead of “You’re mean.”

  • Remove Absolutes: Avoid “always” and “never,” which trap children in fixed identities.

  • Validate Emotions: Replace “Big boys don’t cry” with, “I see you’re upset—let’s talk about it.” This promotes emotional safety and expression.

  • Apologize When Needed: If words hurt, acknowledge the mistake. Modeling accountability builds trust and emotional security.

Words can create an emotionally safe environment where children feel valued. By practicing mindful communication, parents play a crucial role in helping children develop healthy emotional intelligence, self-worth, and resilience. This approach encourages kids to express their emotions openly and strengthens the parent-child bond. In doing so, we empower our children to grow into confident, emotionally aware adults capable of navigating life’s challenges with compassion and self-acceptance.

GOOD ON SOCIAL

IN THE NEWS

Q&A CORNER

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DAD JOKE OF THE WEEK

Why did the cranberry sauce join the band?

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Because it had the perfect jam!

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