YourSELF first, then your children…
“What made you proud of yourself today?”
I was reading an article the other day and as I did a little research, I found this sentence in many blogs from many different people from many different professions.
As I was reading, I began to realize it is truly an important way for children to rewire their brains to do good self-talk and self-reflection, especially young school age children.
When our children have outside influences, it is important to allow our homes to be their place to regenerate and feel good about their SELF.
I most always read to my children at night as I put them to bed. It is a wonderful way to spend TIME with them and just relax.
As I was reading these articles, I wondered what it would look like to sit next to your child or lay with them in bed as the evening winds down and ask the question, “What made you proud of yourSELF today? It makes me think of a beautiful way to reset their day and brain before they fall asleep. One of the articles said that 14 days of doing this small act can change the way a child feels about theirSELF and it can change their behavior at home and school.
It might be difficult for a child to come up with a response initially. They may feel put on the spot or may feel like a lesson is about to come their way.
What would happen if we adults, took care of ourSELF first for 14 days and then began the process with our children. Maybe it would be a better conversation to have with ourSELF first! Feel the feelings ourSELF and be more able to assist our children as they work through finding the positive of their days.
It might be helpful when we ask the question of our children knowing how hard it might be to come up with an answer. We could then say, "When I have asked that same question, here is what I thought about, I am proud of mySELF for taking a long walk today. I listened to the birds sing and felt the breeze on my face."
Be proud of who you are and what you do...I have begun the process, each evening I ask, "What made me proud of mySELF today?"
Welcome to Tender Tuesdays for thoughtful ideas and things to share!
