We all have a voice inside us that talks to us all day long.
Sometimes it’s kind.
Sometimes it worries.
Sometimes it’s much harder on us than it needs to be.
The good news is: we can practise making our kind voice stronger.
For children:
Your inner cheerleader is already there — it just needs practice.
Try these:
When something feels hard, ask: “What would I say to my best friend right now?” Then say that to yourself.
When you make a mistake, try: “I got that wrong. That’s okay. I’ll try again.”
At the end of each day, name one thing: “Something I did well today was…”
It doesn’t have to be big. Trying counts. Showing up counts. Being kind counts.
For grown-ups:
The way we speak to ourselves teaches children how to speak to themselves.
This week, try noticing:
When do you criticise yourself out loud — or in ways your child might notice?
When something goes wrong, can you narrate a kind response? “That didn’t work — I’ll figure it out.”
Can you catch your child being kind to themselves, and name it? “I noticed you were really patient with yourself there. That’s something to be proud of.”
🌱 A grounding moment — try this together
Sit somewhere comfortable.
Place one hand on your heart.
Think of something you tried this week — however small.
Say out loud: “I tried. That counts. I’m proud of me.”
It might feel strange the first time.
Say it anyway. 🫶
