The beginning of the school year can bring a mix of emotions, so using positive affirmations can help any student take on this next school year.
If I try hard enough, I can probably recall every first day of school I’ve ever had. I was liked by a lot of my classmates and had a large group of friends. Yet, I was always nervous. As the new school year approaches, it’s natural for kids to feel what I always felt – a mix of excitement and anxiety. Starting a new grade, meeting new teachers, and reconnecting with classmates can be overwhelming. Look at how overwhelming it can be for parents who have been there and done that. One way to help our children navigate these emotions is through positive affirmations. These simple, yet impactful statements can boost their confidence, reduce anxiety, and set a positive tone for the year ahead. Here’s how you can incorporate positive affirmations into your back-to-school routine.
Why Back-to-School Affirmations Matter
By repeating these affirmations regularly, children can build self-esteem, improve their mood, and develop a more optimistic outlook on life. This is especially important during transitional times like the start of a new school year.
How to Use Positive Affirmations
- Morning Routine: Start the day with a positive affirmation. Encourage your child to say it out loud while looking in the mirror. Do you have a big kid (preteen or teen) who may not want to say it aloud? Remind them of their potential by telling them the positive affirmation, “Remember to tell yourself that today,” to encourage them to try it too.
- Lunchbox Notes: This is my favorite way to share affirmations with my daughters (even though it does become a chore halfway through the year). Slip a note with a positive affirmation into your child’s lunchbox for a midday boost.
- Dinner or Bedtime Ritual: End the day on a positive note by reflecting on the affirmations during dinner or before bed. If you’re not able to see your big kids a lot at the end of the day, shoot them a text and remind them of their value.
- Visual Reminders: Post affirmations around the house—in their room, on the bathroom mirror, or even on the refrigerator.
Our Favorite Back-to-School Affirmations
- I Am Capable: I can handle whatever comes my way today.
- I Am Smart: I am always learning and growing.
- I Am Brave: I may be scared, but I can take on new challenges with courage.
- I Am Kind: I treat others with kindness and respect.
- I Am Unique: I bring something special to my class.
- I Am Loved: I am loved and supported by my family and friends.
- I Am Focused: I am ready to learn and do my best.
- I Am Confident: I believe in myself and my abilities.
- Me gusta aprender cosas nuevas: I like to learn new things.
- Puedo hacer cualquier cosa: I can do anything.
- Está bien cometer errores: It’s okay to make mistakes.
More Than Just Words
Did you know that there’s a bit of science behind saying words aloud. The Saying-is-Believing Effect is a psychological phenomenon that refers to the process by which people come to believe their own messages, especially after conveying them to others. So the next time your child says that they “don’t work” remind them of the science and remind them of their worth. Encourage them to embrace their individuality and face the new school year with a positive mindset. Here’s to a successful and joyful school year ahead!
Looking for more back to school inspiration? Be sure to check out our Back to School Guide.
