As a parent or educator of a 9-year-old, you might be wondering how to promote self–esteem and self-confidence in these young minds. Well, here’s a simple yet effective way – positive affirmations!
Positive affirmations are statements that reinforce positive qualities or beliefs about oneself. They can be used to encourage children and help them develop a positive self-image. Here are some ways parents and educators can use positive affirmations:
-
Start with self-affirmations:
As an adult, it is essential to be comfortable with positive affirmations before teaching them to children. Practice self-affirmations, and this will allow you to understand what your child might need to hear. For example, you can start your day by saying, “I am confident, and I can easily handle all the tasks in my work.” -
Encourage self-affirmations:
Encourage children to develop positive self-talk by introducing positive affirmations. For instance, “I am smart, kind, and I can do anything I set my mind to.” -
Use “You” statements:
Using “you” statements are an excellent way to creating positive affirmations for children. It allows them to feel seen and appreciated. Examples of “you” positive affirmations are, “You are brave and creative, and you inspire me every day,” or “You are a great friend, and others are lucky to have you around.” -
Be specific:
Being specific in positive affirmations is essential for young children. Being too general might not make a difference. Examples of specific positive affirmations are, “You are great at math, and you should be proud of your achievement,” or “You have a fantastic memory, and you remember things easily.” -
Use positive language:
Using positive language in affirmations is critical. For example “I am not a failure” is not a helpful affirmation. Instead, “I am capable of success in every aspect of my life” is much better. -
Repetition is key:
Repeating affirmations on a regular basis helps them stick. Encourage your child to repeat affirmations every morning as part of their routine. Create notes and place them in your child’s room or lunchbox to remind them of positive affirmations. -
Use affirmations during challenging situations:
Children face challenging situations every day, and having positive affirmations can be helpful. For instance, “I am confident I can do this” or “I am brave, and I can overcome my fears.”
Using positive affirmations will create a strong foundation for children’s self-esteem and self-confidence. Encourage your child to believe in themselves and pursue their passions. As a parent or educator, you can be their cheerleader and use the power of positive affirmations to unlock their true potential.
You may also be interested in reading this interesting article on WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON SOCIAL EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES FACED BY 9-YEAR-OLDS? where similar topics are discussed.

Numerical Data
- According to a study conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, positive affirmations can have a significant impact on the selfesteem and selfconfidence of 9yearolds. The study found that when children were given positive affirmations, they had higher levels of selfesteem and selfconfidence than those who did not receive any affirmations. Additionally, the study found that children who received positive affirmations had better academic performance than those who did not.
- Furthermore, another study conducted by the University of Michigan found that when parents and educators used positive affirmations to promote selfesteem and selfconfidence in 9yearolds, they experienced an increase in their sense of belonging and acceptance from their peers. This increase in social acceptance was associated with higher levels of academic performance and improved mental health outcomes.
- Finally, a third study conducted by the University of North Carolina found that when parents and educators used positive affirmations to promote selfesteem and selfconfidence in 9yearolds, they experienced an increase in their ability to cope with stress. This increased ability to cope with stress was associated with improved academic performance as well as improved mental health outcomes.

‘