Words have so much power, especially the words you choose to use with your little ones. And while some parents may stick to using stricter language, and demanding nothing but greatness, science has shown that speaking words of encouragement get you so much farther.
When it comes to how you speak to your child, what type of words do you use? Do positive words outweigh the negative ones?
Perfection isn’t possible- and being a perfect parent is a goal that no one will ever reach. And while perfection is not attainable, the words you use and the tone you use have a major impact on your child’s mind and brain development.
Here are 6 powerful phrases to use with your child to boost their brain development:
1. “I’m going to put away the tablet, let’s read a book together instead.”
In modern times, we have the convenience of handing a tablet or iPad to our children to keep them occupied. However, this convenience comes at a cost: your child’s proper brain development. While a little bit of screen time might be okay, reading them a book is going to do so much for their language, verbal, and social skills. So, when you can, opt for the book!
2. “You are just a good kid going through a difficult moment. I am here for you.”
In the heat of the moment, you may be tempted to say, “You are being so bad right now!” But, when you do, you are putting your child in a box with a label in it, and that can ultimately do more harm than good. Instead, say, “You are a good kid, and you are having a difficult moment. I am here for you.”
3. “You can’t do it yet, but if you keep practicing, it will soon be easy.”
When you notice your little one becoming discouraged about not figuring something out, make sure they know that everything takes practice. Encourage them to keep trying, and eventually, they will catch on.
4. “That’s okay, mistakes make your brain grow.”
This is another great one for instilling a growth mindset. Mistakes are not the end of the world. Honestly, they are inevitable. If they get discouraged when they make a mistake, remind them in simple terms that failure is an opportunity to grow.
5. “Let’s try a tiny taste of those peas, one more time.”
Children and people continue to change their food preferences over time, and even sometimes daily. And while sometimes this can be daunting, especially if you’ve just gotten them to like brussels sprouts only for them to stop eating them a few meals down the road, science shows that it’s key to stay persistent. While you shouldn’t force them or scold them for not trying it, if you make things fun and remind them of how strong they will be for eating good food, they are more likely to try, try again.
6. “Let’s figure this puzzle out together.”
Puzzles, games, and other similar activities are wonderful for helping your child to improve their motor skills and hand-eye coordination. And it’s really important to encourage them to work on them and figure them out. The key is to not jump in and do it for them, but to do it with them.