Grandchildren never forget certain words of wisdom from grandparents; read on to find out what they are and how you can use them.
Feeling proud
When a grandparent says, “I’m proud of you” to a grandchild, it can change the way kids see themselves. Whether it’s for something big or small, kids who spend time hearing these words from their grandparents will grow up with confidence.
They stop striving for unattainable perfection and start knowing that their efforts have been noticed and appreciated.
Safe space
Telling your grandchild, “You can tell me anything,” will open up the lines of communication. They know that if something happens at school or with friends, they can come to you without fear of judgment or being yelled at.
Building trust with your grandchildren will allow them to feel emotionally secure and less alone when they are facing struggles.
Accepting mistakes
Hearing that “it’s okay to make mistakes” can help relieve a child of their fear of failure. Instead of getting discouraged when they mess up, they will learn to accept that mistakes are a natural consequence of learning.
Your grandchildren will feel comfortable trying new things and taking risks for the rest of their lives.
Constant belief
There is not much more encouraging to hear than someone you love telling, ” I believe in you.” This memory will stay with your grandchild forever; it will become a whisper in their ear when they are facing defeat.
They know you believe in their ability to conquer the situation at hand, which helps them to believe in themselves.
Pure presence
We all know how kids love to talk. Instead of rushing them along, say, “Come sit with me.” What you’re really telling them is that they matter and you appreciate their company.
You’re not going to do something extravagant or spend money. You’re simply going to sit with them and enjoy each other. They will feel relaxed and secure knowing that they are special to you.
True worth
Telling them, “You are special just the way you are,” will help them feel important without having to do something grand. They don’t need to win an award, get straight A’s, or be a certain way to gain your approval.
Kids learn at a young age how to please others in order to feel loved. Let your grandchildren know that they don’t have to do anything special to keep you happy because you’re already happy they’re in your life.
Valuing thoughts
“Tell me your story:” encouraging your grandchildren to use their imagination and talk to you about their day lets them know you care about what they have to say.
Listening to kids talk about their adventures at school or make up grand stories lets them know that their thoughts are interesting to you. They will also learn how to use their voice and gain confidence.
Chosen time
Kids want to feel special. When you tell your grandchildren, “I love spending time with you,” they will feel as though they are the only ones who matter to you.
Everything else can wait while you are with them. This will make them feel like your first choice when it comes to spending time with someone and that they’re not just your lucky companion but also your friend.
Enough effort
Life can be stressful. Letting your kids know, “you did your best, and that’s enough,” matters sometimes. There is no need to be perfect all of the time and telling your kids this will help them learn that too.
Your grandchildren will appreciate everything they accomplish because they put their all into it. You are teaching them the importance of hard work without burning themselves out.
Lifelong support
Even if your grandchild moves across the world, they will never forget that, you’ll always be there for them.
They will have that little voice in the back of their head reminding them how you told them, “I will always be there for you”. When your kids know that you have their back, they will feel comfortable taking healthy risks.
Emotional joy
Telling a grandchild, “You make me happy,” encourages them to do more and make feel like they play a role in your life. They know that by just being themselves, they can brighten up someone’s day. They will also feel that they’re helpful members of society.
Sources: Please see here for a complete listing of all sources that were consulted in the preparation of this article.
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