As parents, caregivers, and educators, we have a critical role in shaping the lives of children. It is our responsibility to provide them with guidance, love, and support that enables them to develop into happy, healthy, and well-adjusted individuals. However, sometimes, in our efforts to help them grow, we may unconsciously try to mould them into what we think they should be, rather than seeing them for who they truly are.
"I See You": The Power of Being Seen
All children want is to be seen and met exactly where they are and who they are in the world. It is not our job as parents to mould a child to be what we think they should be. Rather, we should see them for who they really are and then encourage them to continue shining.
One of the most powerful things we can say to a child is, "I See You." These three simple words carry a message that resonates deeply within children. All they want is to be seen and heard, to feel validated, and to know that they matter. When we say, "I See You," we acknowledge them for who they are exactly in that moment. We acknowledge their feelings, their struggles, their strengths and their existence. We validate their experiences and affirm their worth as individuals.
It is crucial to remember that each child has their unique path in life, and it is not our job to impose our expectations or aspirations on them. Instead, we should observe, listen, and learn about who they are, what they enjoy, what they struggle with, and what makes them come alive. When we pay attention and appreciate their uniqueness, we create a safe and nurturing environment that fosters growth, creativity, and self-expression. Then give them the tools to excel in who they actually are.
Children who feel seen and heard are more likely to develop positive self-esteem, self-confidence, and resilience. They are less likely to conform to societal norms or peer pressure, and more likely to pursue their interests, passions, and goals. By seeing children for who they are, we empower them to be their authentic selves and make a positive impact in the world.
In my personal experience, my Grandma Olive was the person who believed in me and saw me for who I was. She was my saving grace, and to this day, she continues to be my role model and inspiration. She taught me the importance of being true to myself, pursuing my dreams, and never giving up on myself. Her love and support gave me the confidence and courage to face life's challenges and embrace my strengths and weaknesses.
I encourage you to find that one person who believed in you growing up, and express your gratitude to them. Let them know how much they mean to you and how their love and support have impacted your life. And as you raise or care for children, remember to say, "I See You," and create a safe and nurturing environment that celebrates thier uniqueness and encourages them to shine.
The Power of SunChild Affirmations
SunChild affirmations are a wonderful way to reinforce the message of seeing the whole child and empowering children to believe in themselves. These affirmations are simple, positive statements that children can repeat to themselves or hear from others to promote self-love, confidence, and resilience.
With every SunChild affirmation, you are saying to the child, "I believe in you, and you believe in yourself too." These words are powerful because they challenge negative self-talk and replace it with positive and affirming messages. By repeating these affirmations, children internalise positive beliefs about themselves and develop a growth mindset that helps them face challenges with resilience and optimism.
When you use SunChild affirmations with children, you are creating a bond of trust and connection based on mutual respect and understanding. You are telling them that you see them for who they are, and you accept and love them unconditionally. This bond is essential because it creates a sense of safety and security that allows children to explore and express themselves freely without fear of judgment or rejection.
Some examples of SunChild affirmations include:
I am kind, I am brave, I am powerful, I am light, I am love.
Seeing children for who they are is a powerful way to support their growth, development, and well-being. By acknowledging their uniqueness, strengths, and struggles, we create a nurturing environment that empowers them to be their authentic selves and know they are enough exactly as they are. Using affirmations such as SunChild affirmations can reinforce the message of "I See You" and promote positive self-talk, self-love, and resilience. Ultimately, our job is not to mould children into what we think they should be, but rather to support them in becoming who they are meant to be. By doing so, we can help them thrive as happy, self-loving, individuals and encourages them to keep their light shining.
Keep Your Light Shining,
Charlotte x
