Positive self talk can make a big difference for kids! From seeing that big test in front of them, to walking into a new classroom full of strangers, to gearing up for a big game…kids can become overwhelmed and stressed out from daily tasks. Teaching kids positive self talk can be a minor tool to use in building confidence, easing anxiety, and helping with attention and focus.
These self-talk beads are a fun way to show kids how to use positive self talk to their advantage!
This post is part of our new series on executive functioning skills and just one tool to have in your toolbox when helping kids build the skills they need for function and independence!
Teach Kids Positive Self Talk
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You’ll need just a couple of materials for this self talk bracelet.
Yarn
Wooden Alphabet Beads
Star Beads
(we received both sets from www.craftprojectideas.com)
Any type or style of beads would work, though.
This alphabet bead kit is perfect.
Positive self talk for kids
Self talk does wonders for kids (and adults!) Self-talk can boost self-confidence, self-esteem, self-control, and influence impulse decisions. When kids are in a situation where they question themselves or put them selves down in their minds, they can end up struggling even more.
Related read: Read more about attention and how kids can improve attention at home and at school.
How to make positive self-talk bracelets
Next, spread out the beads and start talking with your kids about positive self talk!
Talk to your kids or students about the power of self-talk. Ask them how they feel when they hear positive and negitive self-talk statements. Show them how they can identify with these feelings during situations in school, on the sports team, or when with friends.
Each child is different, but there are common concerns that kids might have. From anxiety over a test to feeling self-conscious around peers, a positive thought can really help.
Executive functions are heavily dependent on attention. Read about the attention and executive functioning skill connection and the impact of attention on each of the executive functioning skills that children require and use every day.
Assign each of the colored beads to a positive statement. Then help your child to pick out the statements that speak to them. Use the alphabet beads to create a positive statement they can see on their bracelet. Ideas include: “It’s ok!”, “Yes I can!”, or “I can do this”.
If the children you’re working with don’t want to put words on their bracelet, they can just assign colors to different positive thoughts and add them to their bracelet.
When children wear their bracelet, they can see and feel the colors and remember positive thoughts!
We did a different activity similar to this when we talked about the feelings of others. Check out our empathy beads, too!
