5 powerful lines to say to children at bedtime

Most parents have a hurried bedtime routine with their children - a quick dinner, followed by changing clothes, brush, and lights off. However, just like adults, kids too, need downtime before they hit the sack. It could be in the form of story books, soothing music, or even some light meditation. However, parents too, have some night time responsibilities towards their child. These 5 statements spoken to your child every night reinstates your love, and makes you bond better with your child. Here they are...

This message communicates to your child that your affection remains constant, without any conditions. The statement establishes a powerful feeling of belonging and acceptance, in your child. The practice of verbalising this statement helps children feel valuable, which develops their confidence and minimises their need for perfection. Every night you should express this message to demonstrate that just being "themselves" makes your child enough. The message creates positive self-esteem, which provides emotional security to children as they drift off to sleep.

Your child will build self-belief when you praise their efforts, regardless of their accomplishments, no matter how small or significant. Through this statement, you teach your child that their work ethic stands above all else, because genuine effort proves more important than flawlessness. Specific examples of their achievements, such as being there for friends, or attempting something new should be mentioned. Expressing gratitude to your child at bedtime, creates positive feelings of accomplishment, which leads to their motivation for tomorrow. Your acknowledgement of their work shows that you value their efforts which leads to increased self-worth.

At night, children often experience worries and fears about things that are unclear to them. The reassurance that it is normal to have these feelings, lets your child understand they share their emotional state with others. Emotional recognition helps children develop their emotional intelligence, while creating a secure space to discuss their apprehensions. You can add: “I’m here with you, and you are safe.” The assurance of protection and support enables their minds to become calm, as they prepare for sleep.

This statement creates a positive atmosphere by building expectation and optimism. Your child needs this message after experiencing difficulties during the day, because it informs them about the upcoming opportunities for growth and enjoyment. The declaration helps children face the future with optimism, rather than fear. The message builds resilience through teaching children to overcome past errors or letdowns, by believing that superior experiences lie ahead. A positive outlook at the end of each day, promotes both peace of mind and optimism.

This statement builds intense emotional bond through its message that your child's unique qualities deserve recognition. Your words indicate you admire all aspects of their personality, whether they exhibit kindness, curiosity, humor or bravery. Children who receive this message frequently , tend to develop unconditional self-acceptance and love for themselves. The parent-child bond grows stronger, when you remind your child about their authentic self, because you understand and value them as they truly are. Your child develops a healthy sense of identity, through feelings of pride and acceptance.

You should deliver these lines with both a calm voice and a smiling expression. The way you deliver words along with your facial expressions, has equal weight to the actual words you speak.

You should state these phrases both during bedtime routines, and whenever your child needs comfort. Consistent repetition helps develop strong emotional routines.

When you speak to your child, you should use their name and describe a particular action they performed during the day. Show affection by hugging or cuddling your child to make him feel secure and loved.

Sources:

Psychology Today - The Power of Positive Words for Children

American Academy of Pediatrics - How Bedtime Routines Affect Kids

Child Mind Institute - Helping Kids Cope With Anxiety

Verywell Family - Importance of Bedtime Messages for Children

Raising Children Network - Building Self-Esteem in Children Through Words