Identifying the Core Emotions: Begin with What’s Real
Start by identifying the specific emotions the child is feeling. Nervous? Scared? Confused? Build the affirmation around that core emotion.
“It’s okay to feel what I’m feeling, and I’m strong enough to get through this.”
Tailoring Language: Age and Understanding Matter
Craft affirmations that suit the child’s age and comprehension level. For a 5-year-old, “I am brave like a superhero!” can be magical.
“I am brave like a superhero!”
Empowerment Through Visualization: Paint the Picture
Embed the affirmation with images. “I am as brave as a lion facing the storm” can give them a visualization that empowers them.
“I am as brave as a lion facing the storm.”
Involvement is Key: Make Them Part of the Process
Engage the child in creating their own affirmation. You’ll find they are often incredibly insightful.
“I have the power to create my own brave words.”
Consistency is Queen (or King): The Routine Factor
Encourage consistent repetition, perhaps before bed or upon waking. Repetition is the tool that hammers affirmations into place.
“Every day, in every way, I’m getting stronger and braver.”
Enriching the Experience: Add Tactile Elements
Combine the affirmation with a comforting action. Think of a hug or holding a favorite stuffed animal while saying it.
“When I squeeze my teddy bear and say my brave words, I feel stronger.”
Layered Affirmations: It’s a Symphony, Not a Solo
A single affirmation can be potent, but a series of them can be transformational. Consider a sequence that moves from acknowledgement to empowerment.
- “I know I’m a bit scared.”
- “It’s okay to be scared.”
- “I am brave enough to face this.”
“I am a symphony of courage and bravery, playing my triumphant song.”
Immediate vs Long-term Affirmations: Know When to Use Which
Some affirmations offer immediate comfort (“I am safe right now”) while others focus on the long-term (“Every challenge makes me stronger”). Use a blend.
“I am safe now and getting stronger for all my tomorrows.”
Affirmations Aren’t a Silo: Integrate Them into Overall Care
Don’t forget to integrate affirmations as part of a holistic care strategy that may involve medical professionals, counselors, and, of course, family.
“My brave words are one piece of my big circle of care.”
Reinforcement Through Art and Play: Make It Interactive
Translate the affirmation into a drawing, a little song, or a skit. Making it a playful experience can be both distracting and reinforcing.
“When I draw or sing my brave words, they dance around me, making me strong.”
Group Dynamic: Affirmations for the Family
Parents and siblings may also be anxious. Family-focused affirmations like “We are a brave family” can provide collective strength.
“We are a brave family, and together we face any challenge.”
Final Nudges: Pre-Procedure and Post-Procedure Affirmations
Some affirmations are particularly useful just before a procedure (“I am ready and brave now”) and some for after (“I did it because I’m amazing”).
“I am a brave hero before, during, and after my adventure in the hospital.”
Road Ahead: Preparing for Next Time
Post-procedure, an affirmation like “Every challenge makes me stronger” sets a positive precedent for future life challenges, not just medical ones.
“Every challenge makes me stronger, and I am getting ready for all the adventures life has for me.”