My son wasn’t scared of getting shots until he was about seven or eight years old. Over the years I tried many different strategies including reminders, distractions, and even offering a treat. He was always fine until the needle came out and then he went into panic mode - kicking, screaming, and trying to run away. At ten years old I tried a new strategy - and it worked! Just 3 seconds after the nurse and I held him down as he was crying and looking at me with the feelings of betrayal in his eyes he said “Wow, that wasn’t so bad. I’m fine.” So I decided at that moment to allow him the opportunity to remind his future self that it wasn’t all that bad. And his future self listened the following year. (see the video above)
Every parent wants to see their child happy and thriving, especially when they face moments of fear or anxiety. Whether it’s getting a shot, giving a speech, or tackling a new challenge, these experiences can be intimidating for kids. One simple yet powerful way to help them build resilience and confidence is to film them affirming their own courage and worth right after such moments. Here’s why this practice can be incredibly beneficial for your child’s emotional well-being and self-esteem.
1. Reinforces Positive Self-Affirmation
Filming your child as they say affirmations like “I’m all good” or “I did it” right after facing a fear helps reinforce positive self-talk. Seeing and hearing themselves state these affirmations helps solidify their sense of accomplishment. This practice creates a lasting positive reinforcement that counters any negative feelings they might have had during the experience.
2. Provides a Visual Reminder of Strength
Video recordings serve as a powerful visual reminder of their bravery and resilience. After a challenging situation, like getting a shot or speaking in front of an audience, watching themselves on video confidently stating their achievements can be incredibly empowering. This visual proof of their courage helps them remember their strength and boosts their self-esteem.
3. Encourages Emotional Resilience
By associating a positive affirmation with a moment of fear or anxiety, your child learns to manage their emotions more effectively. The process helps them understand that they have the power to overcome challenges and build resilience through positive self-talk. This practice equips them with a valuable tool for handling future anxieties.
4. Enhances Self-Awareness
Watching themselves on video can help children develop greater self-awareness. They see their own reactions and hear their positive affirmations, which can provide insights into their feelings and responses. This self-awareness fosters emotional intelligence and helps them recognize their growth and progress.
5. Strengthens Parent-Child Connection
Filming these affirmations and discussing the experience with your child strengthens your bond. It shows your child that you’re actively involved in their emotional development and supportive of their efforts. This connection and encouragement can have a profound impact on their overall sense of security and self-worth.
6. Promotes a Growth Mindset
Regularly affirming their successes and positive qualities helps children develop a growth mindset. They learn to view challenges as opportunities for learning and growth rather than as obstacles. This mindset is crucial for building long-term confidence and handling future challenges with a positive attitude.
Filming your child as they affirm their courage and worth after facing fears or anxieties is a simple yet effective way to boost their confidence and emotional resilience. By creating a visual record of their bravery and positive self-talk, you help them build a strong foundation for self-esteem and personal growth. Plus, it’s a fun and meaningful way to connect with your child and support their emotional development. So, next time your child faces a challenge, grab your camera and help them capture their own strength and success!
**My son, 18 years old when this was written, gave me permission to share his video and write this article.
