Positive Mindset for Children Archives

Gratitude in the Unexpected

When you choose to only focus on what you expected to achieve or what you wanted to occur, a mindset shift for gratitude helps you notice the learning and opportunities that can come from life’s detours.

When I was travelling to BC, I expected that my holiday would be stress free – a time to relax and have fun.

Then the detour happened…my purse with all my ID was stolen. I was sad, angry, disappointed and overwhelmed.

Awhile later my mum suggested I write 3 things I could be grateful for from this disheartening incident.

I was shocked. What could I possibly appreciate?

I decided to give it a try.

I took pen to paper and wrote:

1. The kindness and generosity of the people around me who wanted to replace the items in my purse.

2. My brother-in-law (a police officer) immediately started to find ways to get me new identification so I could board the plane home.

3. A fun shopping trip with my mum to replace my purse.

When I chose to focus on what I appreciated rather than what I expected, a mindset shift for gratitude made it easier to let go of the tough emotions I was experiencing, and I was able to bounce back much quicker than I normally would.

Next time your child is facing a challenging time or a tough emotion, ask them to write or tell you 3 things they are grateful for to help them bounce back to move forward.

This is what I know: A mindset shift for gratitude works – not only for kids but also adults!

Until next time…

8 Jan 2025

Boost Kids’ Confidence with Daily Intentions

Intentions are a wonderful opportunity to inspire kids to think about how they want to show up in their daily lives.

By encouraging them to set daily intentions focused on who they want to be (rather than just what they want to achieve), you help them align with their character. This practice nurtures emotional and mental well-being, fostering confidence and resilience throughout the year.

Creating daily intentions doesn’t mean every day will be perfect or without challenges. Rather, it’s about giving kids a tool to guide their choices and actions, especially when faced with difficult or awkward moments.

An intention is a simple, focused choice—a way to decide who they want to be or how they want to feel on any given day.

3 Steps to Make Daily Intentions Part of Their Routine

1. Choose One Intention: Encourage kids to pick a simple phrase that reflects how they want to approach the day. They can come up with their own or use suggestions like: ✨Today, I choose kindness. ✨I choose to be a good listener. ✨I am brave. ✨I will stay curious and keep learning. ✨I will speak kindly to myself. ✨I embrace new challenges with confidence. ✨I choose to be a good teammate.

2. Write It Down or Say It Aloud: Help them reinforce the daily intention by writing it on a sticky note, drawing a picture of it or saying it out loud.

3. Reflect and Check In: Throughout the day, ask how their intention is guiding them. For example, “How did choosing kindness help you with your friends today?”

This is what I know: By encouraging your child to set daily intentions, you’re helping them develop a growth mindset. This simple practice sets them up to face challenges with courage and adaptability, making the year ahead an opportunity for emotional and personal growth.

Until next time…