My oldest daughter is two and a half, and she just started to show an interest in holidays. Her eyes lit up watching the twinkling lights on our Christmas tree every evening in December, and she’s still keeping her eyes peeled for Santa when we go to the store. Much to her dismay, the tree has come down, and like many adults (including me), January has been a little boring in her opinion. This is why I’m so glad that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner!
I know that Valentine’s Day can be hit or miss for a lot of people, but hear me out. Yes, it can sometimes revolve around receiving tokens of love from other people, but I also think it can be a reminder to practice self-love. As I introduce this holiday to my daughter, I want her to see it as an opportunity to celebrate the love she has for her family and friends. Not only that, but I also want it to be a reminder to take care of and value the wonderful little girl that she is too. As we make valentines for all the special people in our lives, I want her to know that she is worthy of receiving these same loving words and intentions from the people around her and from within herself.
So when I spotted this DIY Valentine Mailbox brimming with positive affirmations from @a_magicalmess on Instagram, I was excited to infuse some fun holiday magic back into my toddler’s life. While we’re at it, may it also introduce an important mental health tool that will nurture her self-esteem and beliefs from a young age.
As Generation Mindful explains, “Positive (or negative) words are absorbed by the mind and become our belief systems, shaping the very way we see ourselves and the world around us. Simply put, when we feel worthy and loved, we respond as if we are worthy and loved.”
If we want our little ones to believe that they are wonderful people, we need to say specific, genuine statements aloud. We also need them to repeat those statements to themselves throughout the day too. Modeling affirmations from a young age helps to instill confidence and a positive mindset that is especially helpful when they face challenges throughout life.
Our daughter has experienced a lot of changes this year. From welcoming a new baby sister to transitioning out of daycare, she has been forced to adapt and grow in ways that would be hard for any adult, much less a two-year-old. I want to validate how much she has grown this year, while also expressing appreciation and love for the person she is every day.
Here are the positive affirmations that I’ll be including in my daughter’s Valentine’s Day mailbox this year:
- I am loved.
- My family loves spending time with me and will always be here for me.
- I am a great sister.
- I love myself.
- I am smart.
- I am kind to my family and friends.
- I am learning every day.
- I can ask for help when I need it.
- My voice matters and my family loves to hear what I have to say.
- I am beautiful on the inside and outside.
- I am amazing just the way I am.
- I can do new things.
- I try my best, and that’s enough.
- My family loves me no matter what.
If you’re looking for more positive affirmations for your children, this list from Pure Wow has some great ideas!
