My Daily Affirmations: Words Every Kid Should Tell Themselves

Hi everyone! Can I tell you a secret? Before auditions, photo shoots, and even regular school days, I look in the mirror and say nice things to myself out loud. They're called affirmations, and they're like a pep talk you give YOU. It might feel a little silly at first, but it really works. It helps me feel calm, brave, and proud of who I am.

Here are the affirmations I like to say every day. You can say all of them or just pick your favorites!

1. I am smart, I am strong, and I am kind.

2. I am enough, just the way I am.

3. I am brave, even when I feel nervous.

4. My mistakes help me learn and grow.

5. I can do hard things.

6. My voice matters and my ideas are important.

7. I am proud of how hard I work.

8. I don't have to be perfect to be amazing.

9. I am loved, I am special, and there is only one me.

10. Today is going to be a great day, and I am ready for it!

My tips for kids: say your affirmations at the same time every day, like when you brush your teeth in the morning. Look yourself in the eyes in the mirror and say them like you mean it. You can even write your favorite one on a sticky note and put it on your mirror or in your backpack. When I'm nervous before an audition, I whisper 'I am brave, even when I feel nervous' and it helps so much.

A note for parents: my mom and dad say affirmations with me, and that makes it even more fun. Kids learn how to talk to themselves by listening to how the grown-ups around them talk to them. Try saying the affirmations together in the morning or at bedtime, and praise your child's effort and kindness, not just the results. Words like 'I'm proud of how hard you practiced' help kids believe in themselves, whether they book the role or not.

Self-esteem isn't something you're just born with. It grows a little bit every day, like a muscle. So start tomorrow morning, stand in front of the mirror, and tell yourself something amazing. You deserve to hear it! Love, Eleaya.