Ways A Child Is Special

If there is one thing we need to instill in children today is a sense of love and self-worth, for only when they learn to love themselves and treasure the unique little person that they are, can they love and appreciate others.

Much of what a child learns about himself comes from his parents and his child care provider.  It is the place where children spend the most of their time that, like these lines of the poem of the unknown author says,

Children Learn What They Live

If a child lives with encouragement
He learns confidence
If a child lives with praise
He learns to appreciate
If a child lives with approval
He learns to like himself
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship
He learns to find love in the world

Language Matters

Here are twenty five phrases parents and providers can use to encourage a child - to tell him or her what a wonderful little person they are.

1  You're beautiful.
2.  I'm proud of you.
3.  I knew you could do it.
4.  You're so kind.
5.  You're very special.
6.  Aren't you smart.
7.  You're outstanding.
8.  You try so hard.
9.  Good work!.
10.You are marvelous.
11. Way to go sunshine.
12. You're wonderful.
13. Well look at you.
14. I love you.
15. You've done a great job.
16. You're smile brightens my day.
17. Thank you for being my buddy.
18. I think you're terrific.
19. What would I do without you.
20. You make me so happy.
21. What a nice thing you did.
22. You're the love of my life.
23. You do the nicest things.
24. You make the world a special place.
25. I'm so happy you're my son, daughter, friend.

Parents, take the time to listen to what goes on at you child care facility.  You could learn a lot about the type of environment your child is in.  Do the children sound happy?  Are the teacher's voices cheerful?  Are they encouraging?  Do you ever hear the provider praise your child or tell him or her how special they are? If you like what you hear, tell your provider how special she is, what a wonderful job she is doing, how she makes all your lives brighter.  Your child learns by example.  And, of course, your provider will certainly appreciate your kind words.