140 Daily Positive Affirmations for Kids & Children

Kaia Koglin
Last updated:
Brindusa Vanta, MD, DHMHS
Medical editor
MentalHelp independently researches, tests, and reviews products and services which may benefit our readers. Where indicated by “Medically Reviewed by”, Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. If you buy something through our links, or engage with a provider, we may earn a commission.
Kaia Koglin Kids today face a world that’s very different from the...

Kids today face a world that’s very different from the society experienced by children a generation ago. Between the in-your-face dangers of social media and increasing access to news of global conflict and strife, it’s difficult to get away from negativity and protect personal emotional well-being.

One multiyear study found that 21.8% of U.S. children between the ages of 3 and 17 have at least one of the most commonly assessed mental, emotional, and/or behavioral health conditions.(1) Researchers also found links between social and relational health risks and the conditions above, with everything from a child’s neighborhood to their school friends influencing mental health.


Ad

  1. Daily Positive Affirmations for Kids & Children
  2. Daily Morning Affirmations
  3. I Am Affirmations for Kids
  4. 4. Christian Affirmations
  5. Bedtime Affirmations
  6. Biblical Affirmations
  7. Affirmations for Taking a Test
  8. The Benefits of Practicing Daily Affirmations for Kids & Children
  9. Sources

Related Reading: The Science of Affirmations: The Brain’s Response to Positive Thinking

Incorporating daily positive affirmations for kids into a child’s routine can help increase feelings of self-worth. It’s not magic; research shows that self-affirmation tasks increase activity in the brain’s ventromedial prefrontal cortex, an area linked to positive valuation and self-related information processing.(2)

Therapists are Standing By to Treat Your Depression, Anxiety or Other Mental Health Needs

Explore Your Options Today

Ad

Encouraging kids to embrace positive thinking, including positive self-talk, could help with everything from raising self-esteem to making kids more likely to explore new things and invest themselves in school, hobbies, and friendships.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular affirmations for kids.

Kids Saying Daily Positive Affirmations for Kids & Children

Daily Positive Affirmations for Kids & Children

Studies show that family routines can help improve sleep habits, family functioning, development of social skills, and even academic success.(3) It makes sense, then, that making a habit of incorporating positive affirmations for kids into daily family life could help with self-esteem and create positive feelings. This applies not just to home life but to school and play situations, too.

Some affirmations are as simple as repeating positive self-talk, such as “I can do it” or “I’m good enough.”  Others may be more specific. For instance, parents can use positive affirmations for children with attachment disorders or who have difficulty making friends that target those feelings—“I am a good friend” or “I am worthy of love.”

  1. I am unique and special, and I have many wonderful qualities.
  2. I am confident and comfortable in my own skin.
  3. I am smart and capable of learning anything I want to.
  4. I am full of curiosity and wonder, always exploring and learning new things.
  5. I am a good friend, and I treat others with kindness and respect.
  6. I am in control of my thoughts and feelings, and I choose to be happy.
  7. I am capable of making a positive difference in the world.
  8. I am an extraordinary and remarkable individual, possessing a plethora of exceptional qualities that make me one of a kind.
  9. I radiate self assurance and am entirely at ease being myself, embracing all of my unique attributes and characteristics.
  10. I am a brilliant and accomplished learner, and I am capable of acquiring any knowledge I desire.
  11. I am endlessly curious and fascinated by the world around me, always eager to explore and discover new things.
  12. I am an exceptional friend, always treating others with compassion, empathy, and the utmost respect.
  13. I possess the power to control my thoughts and emotions, and I make a conscious choice to embrace positivity, joy, and contentment.
  14. I hold within me the potential to make a tremendous and affirmative impact on the world and those around me.
  15. I am resilient. I am adaptable. I am a problem solver. — Serena Williams
  16. I am loved, I am accepted, I am enough. — Lizzo
  17. I believe in myself and my abilities. — Simone Biles
  18. I am powerful, I am unique, I am magnificent. — Alicia Keys
  19. I am creative, I am imaginative, I am unique. — Taylor Swift
  20. I am brave, I am strong, I am loved. — Emma Watson

How Affirmations for Kids Can Help Improve Self Esteem

As discussed above, there is some research suggesting that affirmations can change brain chemistry, but how does it all work? Experts believe the brain can change and adapt. For example, the brain may rewire following a trauma or conditions that develop after a crisis situation or long-term abuse. But the fact that lines between reality and imagination can get a little blurry can actually be helpful when it comes to mastering the fine art of mind over matter.

Repeating affirmations can “train” the brain to turn positive words into actual beliefs, jettisoning negative feelings in favor of boosting how people view themselves.(4) Positive phrases related to a child’s self-esteem, like “I value myself” and “I believe in my abilities,” can, over time, be absolutely transformative.

Interestingly, two-thirds of parents say their children feel self-conscious about their appearance, and those feelings directly impact self-esteem, according to a study.(5) Bullying can play a role as well. Using daily affirmations may help kids build self-esteem proactively and deal with the side effects of poor treatment due to physical differences.

a child playing in the morning after saying affirmations

Daily Morning Affirmations

Morning habits set the tone for the entire day. What people eat, how they wake up, and who they interact with can affect everything from mood to energy levels to attentiveness at school. Adding morning affirmations for kids into a routine already packed with healthy initiatives like brushing teeth and consuming a balanced breakfast could aid in more positive thinking all day long.

Try to make morning affirmations into a habit. Schedule them on a visual calendar so kids remember to prioritize those positive thoughts, or write positive affirmations on note cards to be posted by the bathroom sink or tented on the dining room table.

  1. I am unique and special in my own way.
  2. I choose to focus on the good in every situation.
  3. I am loved and cared for by those around me.
  4. I am capable of achieving my dreams with hard work and determination.
  5. I am kind and compassionate to myself and others.
  6. I trust in my abilities and know that I can handle anything that comes my way.
  7. I am grateful for all the good things in my life, big and small.
  8. I am a problem — solver and can find creative solutions to any challenge.
  9. I am deserving of love, respect, and happiness.
  10. I am one of a kind and exceptional in my own extraordinary way.
  11. I make a conscious choice to focus on the positive aspects of every situation, and I see opportunities for growth and learning.
  12. I am cherished and supported by those who love me dearly and have my best interests at heart.
  13. I possess the drive, discipline, and unwavering determination to achieve my goals and aspirations, regardless of any obstacles or setbacks I may encounter.
  14. I show compassion, empathy, and kindness towards myself and others, recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles and deserves to be treated with love and respect.
  15. I have complete faith in my abilities and trust that I can successfully navigate through any challenge or difficulty that arises in my life.
  16. I am deeply grateful for all the incredible blessings, joys, and wonders that surround me, both big and small, and I never take them for granted.
  17. I am an ingenious and innovative problem-solver, and I approach every challenge with a positive and optimistic attitude, knowing that I can come up with creative solutions to overcome any obstacle.
  18. I am worthy of love, respect, and happiness, and I treat myself with the same kindness, compassion, and understanding that I show to others.
  19. I am kind, I am helpful, I am thoughtful. — Kristen Bell
  20. I am curious, I am adventurous, I am bold. — Ellen DeGeneres

How Reciting These Can Encourage Positive Self-Talk

Scientists suggest that most people who accomplish their New Year’s resolutions likely succeed because they’ve learned how to rewire their brains to create those positive habits. This is called “self-directed neuroplasticity,” and it can be done through active reflection.(6)

Whereas many people practice experience-dependent neuroplasticity, which involves doing something over and over until the action becomes second nature, self-directed neuroplasticity is very intentional and requires planning. Positive statements can train the brain to overcome negative thinking and manifest more positive outcomes. When negative thoughts arise, repeat positive affirmations. The more those affirmations take center stage, the greater the likelihood that positive self-talk becomes a habit.

There are lots of factors that influence mental health, including genetics, personal trauma, and underlying physical conditions. But engaging in affirmations may help mitigate mental health woes and reinforce the idea that positive self-talk isn’t just talk but real actions that can compel real change.

A group of boys practicing “I Am” Affirmations for Kids

I Am Affirmations for Kids

“I am” affirmations for kids aren’t merely positive affirmations; they’re a way to take ownership over feelings and entire belief systems. Contrast negative statements like “I am a bad girl” with positive affirmations like “I am a strong girl.” One will likely lead to feeling hurt, while the other practically radiates positive energy.

Of course, these feelings are often cumulative. One “I am” affirmation won’t  alter a child’s self-esteem. But teaching children to practice positive thinking is teaching them a skill that can be used for years to come. Consistency is key.

  1. I am resilient and can bounce back from setbacks and failures.
  2. I am surrounded by love and positivity.
  3. I am confident in expressing my thoughts and feelings to others.
  4. I am surrounded by people who love and support me.
  5. I am capable of accomplishing anything I set my mind to with hard work and perseverance.
  6. I am brave and strong, and I can overcome any challenge.
  7. I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to.
  8. I am grateful for all the wonderful things in my life.
  9. I am a strong and resilient individual, capable of overcoming setbacks and failures with ease.
  10. I am surrounded by an abundance of love, positivity, and uplifting energy every day.
  11. I am confident and self-assured in expressing my thoughts and feelings to others with clarity and precision.
  12. I am blessed to be surrounded by a supportive and loving community that encourages me to be my best self.
  13. I possess the skills, determination, and discipline necessary to achieve any goal I set my mind to.
  14. I am fearless and courageous, and I possess the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacle in my path.
  15. I have the potential to achieve greatness and accomplish anything I set my sights on.
  16. I am filled with gratitude and appreciation for all the amazing blessings and opportunities that life has to offer me.
  17. I am strong. I am capable. I am loved. — Michelle Obama
  18. I am unique and wonderful. There is no one else like me. — Jennifer Garner,
  19. I am powerful. I am a leader. I am enough. — Beyoncé
  20. I am brave. I am confident. I am unstoppable. — Will Smith

How Positive Self-Talk Can Promote a Positive Mindset

Positive self-talk is a fancy name for the internal dialogue people use to discuss their own best aspects.(7) Really, this self-talk includes any words or phrasing that makes someone feel good about who they are and where they are in life. Positive self-talk should be rooted in reality—saying “I’m a fabulous airline pilot” when the individual has never even been on a plane isn’t helpful. But optimism and motivating language are just as important.

The goal with positive self-talk is to change the person’s own attitude from the inside out. Say “I’m an amazing person” and “I can overcome challenges” and those beliefs may be more likely to come true.

This positive mindset isn’t just a destination, either—it’s a journey, and that journey can help kids turn negative emotions into opportunities for healing and progress. School children are 77% less engaged in school if they lack self-regulation, according to some research.(1) But recalibrating what constitutes a positive outlook can help even young kids have a fresh start and find new routes to their own happiness.

a boy practicing christian affirmations for children and kids

4. Christian Affirmations

Christian affirmations for kids work in the same way as other affirmations—using positive phrasing to improve feelings of self-worth and increasing positive self-image. But religious affirmations incorporate ideas that also emphasize God’s word and God’s love, bringing a spiritual aspect into the mix.

For some people, Bible verses are already considered affirmations. Religious parents interested in teaching their children the power of the Heavenly Father might choose to share biblical excerpts with children struggling with life, poor self-esteem, or other issues, reminding them of the value of faith, community, and the good that happens when a person has confidence in the Almighty.

  1. I am fearfully and wonderfully made by God, who loves me just the way I am.
  2. God is always with me, even when I feel alone or afraid.
  3. I am a child of God and He has great plans for my life.
  4. With God’s help, I can do all things.
  5. God’s love for me is never-ending and unconditional.
  6. I am forgiven by God, and I can forgive others too.
  7. I can trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness, even when things are hard.
  8. God has given me unique talents and abilities that I can use to serve Him and others.
  9. God is my strength and my shield, and I can always turn to Him for help.
  10. I can pray to God about anything, and He will listen and answer me in His own way.
  11. I am called to love others as God loves me, and I can show kindness and compassion to everyone I meet.
  12. God’s grace and mercy are new every morning, and I can start fresh each day.
  13. God is my refuge and my strength, and I can find peace in Him no matter what is happening around me.
  14. I am made by God, who loves me just the way I am.
  15. God is always with me, even when I feel scared or alone.
  16. God has great plans for my life, and I am His child.
  17. I can do all things with God’s help.
  18. God loves me always, no matter what.
  19. I am forgiven by God and can forgive others too.
  20. I can trust in God even when things are hard.

How These Affirmations Can Help Your Child’s Spirituality

All Christian affirmations are rooted in scripture, and most focus on declarations of faith rather than focusing specifically on self-love. In this way, Christian affirmations steer people toward strengthening their relationship with God, and happy feelings follow naturally.

Because Christian affirmations are so spiritual in nature, they can be looked at as a form of prayer. One source explains affirmations as a way to follow through on the commands of Philippians 4:18 NIV: Focus on “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable… excellent or praiseworthy.”(8)

These affirmations should replace negative self-talk, but the goal isn’t necessarily self-love. Instead, Christian affirmations are like talking to a good friend or religious leader, exploring how to bring joy and alleviate stress and doubt by doubling down on belief and trust in God. It’s also a way to increase awareness and build on spiritual connection. Affirmations can guide prayer and help individuals open themselves up to being seen and heard by God and hearing his word in return.

a mother reading bedtime affirmations to her child

Bedtime Affirmations

Research shows that nightly bedtime routines are good for much more than just a solid night’s sleep. A good bedtime routine can also contribute to better developmental outcomes ranging from improved language development to better emotional and behavioral regulation in children.(9) That last part is where bedtime affirmations for kids come into play.

Positive affirmations worked into a bedtime routine can help improve a child’s life by encouraging self-reflection and building self-esteem on a daily basis. In the same way kids absorb the moral of a fairy tale during story time, they can absorb the root meanings of bedtime affirmations to enjoy peaceful sleep and wake up better prepared to conquer all the hurdles present in a child’s life.

  1. I am surrounded by love and positivity, and I am grateful for all the good things in my life.
  2. I am unique and special, with my own set of talents and abilities that make me who I am.
  3. I choose to focus on the good in every situation, and I believe that things will work out for the best.
  4. I am brave and strong, and I can overcome any challenge that comes my way.
  5. I am capable of achieving my dreams, and I am willing to work hard to make them a reality.
  6. I trust in my abilities and know that I can handle anything that comes my way.
  7. I am kind and compassionate to myself and others, spreading joy and positivity wherever I go.
  8. I am loved and cared for by those around me, and I am never alone.
  9. I am grateful for my body and all the amazing things it can do, allowing me to run, jump, and play.
  10. Love and positivity surround me, and I am thankful for all the good things in my life.
  11. My talents and abilities make me unique and special in my own way.
  12. I make a conscious effort to see the good in every situation and have faith that things will work out for the best.
  13. Challenges don’t scare me, as I am brave and strong enough to overcome them all.
  14. With hard work and determination, I can make my dreams a reality.
  15. I have faith in my abilities and know that I can handle anything that comes my way.
  16. Bringing joy and positivity to myself and others is something I strive for by being kind and compassionate.
  17. The people around me love and care for me, and I never feel alone.
  18. My body is amazing and capable of doing incredible things like running, jumping, and playing. I am grateful for it.
  19. You are enough just the way you are. You don’t have to do anything to earn love or prove your worth. — Meghan Markle
  20. You are brave and courageous. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. — Ellen DeGeneres

How Bedtime Affirmations for Kids Can Encourage a Positive Self-Image

The Cleveland Clinic says, “Self-image is a product of learning.”(10) That means every person or event that teaches kids something can also affect their self-confidence and how they view themselves. School teachers, scout leaders, counselors, friends, extended family—they all feed into a child’s self-perception, and unfortunately, not all those lessons are positive ones.

But habitual self-affirmation can fight even occasional negativity by becoming a consistent, positive presence in a child’s life. Bedtime affirmations can be used to address stressful situations that occurred throughout the day. Someone was mean? Pull out an affirmation on inner strength in the face of bullying. A test was particularly challenging? End the day with affirmations about practicing and studying to be the best the child can be.

Remember, too, that habits like nightly affirmations can influence neural pathways.(6) Choosing to guide a child through affirmations at the conclusion of the day, right before lights out or even during bath time as part of a pre-bed ritual, empowers kids to alter their own brain chemistry and work toward a positive self-image that may form the foundation of a healthier adulthood.

A young boy reciting Biblical Affirmations for Children

Biblical Affirmations

Biblical affirmations are similar to Christian affirmations but rely even more heavily on God’s word and text taken straight from treasured Bible verses. Parents can use biblical affirmations for kids to increase positivity in a way that honors their faith and belief system. This often takes the form of more holistic or outward-looking affirmations, rather than affirmations that are focused on the self and individual needs.

Positive affirmations rooted in the Bible can be found online or through the church and are sometimes even taught in Bible study groups as a way to expand faith beyond religious meetings and readings.

  1. I can have joy and peace in my heart because of God’s love for me.
  2. God is my helper and strength when I feel weak.
  3. I can show kindness and love to others, just like Jesus did.
  4. I can trust God to help me through difficult times.
  5. I am forgiven by God when I make mistakes.
  6. I can talk to God anytime and anywhere.
  7. I am loved by God no matter what.
  8. The boundless love of God fills my heart with unspeakable joy and indescribable peace, enabling me to live my life with contentment and fulfillment.
  9. Whenever I face challenging situations or feel overwhelmed by life’s struggles, I take comfort in knowing that God is always by my side, providing me with the strength and support I need to overcome any obstacles.
  10. As a disciple of Jesus, I strive to emulate His example of compassion, generosity, and empathy towards others, treating everyone with kindness, respect, and love, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances.
  11. In times of uncertainty, fear, or doubt, I choose to place my trust and faith in God, knowing that He has a plan for my life and will guide me through any adversity that I may face.
  12. Despite my imperfections and shortcomings, I find solace in the fact that God’s mercy and grace are boundless and unending, allowing me to experience His forgiveness and redemption every time I repent and turn towards Him.
  13. Whether I am in prayer, meditation, or simply going about my day, I take comfort in the knowledge that I can always communicate with God, sharing my joys, fears, hopes, and dreams with Him, and receiving His wisdom, guidance, and comfort in return.
  14. As a child of God, I am loved unconditionally and infinitely by my Heavenly Father, who created me in His image and delights in all that I am and do. No matter what happens, I am assured of His unwavering love and acceptance.
  15. No matter what happens in life, God is always with you and will never leave you. — Candace Cameron Bure
  16. You are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, and He has a purpose for your life. — Kirk Cameron
  17. God loves you just the way you are, and He has amazing things planned for your future. — Max Lucado
  18. God’s grace is greater than any mistake or failure, and He can help you overcome anything. — Lysa TerKeurst
  19. When you have faith in God, He will give you strength to face any challenge and overcome any obstacle. — Joel Osteen
  20. God’s Word is a light to guide us and a comfort in times of trouble. — Franklin Graham

How Daily Affirmations Can Promote a Christlike Life for Your Child

There are many benefits to daily affirmations, but affirmations taken from the Bible have the added perk of underscoring the value of living a Christlike life. For children still learning the nuances of faith and religion, it can be powerful to connect the outcomes of one’s own choices with the wonderful things people can do for their family and community. All these connections are important and can be strengthened through biblical affirmations.

For example, kids who feel adrift or like they don’t have a path can be reminded of Jeremiah 29:11: “God has a great plan for my life.” Repeating this mantra or affirmation reminds a child that there’s a bigger picture in play. Yes, it’s important to strive to be a good person, but self-worth isn’t completely internal, either. God is there to teach, support, guide, and provide.

Children can also be quite fearful of mistakes, wondering if an error could cost them their family or even their relationship with God. The Bible is there to remind followers, “Nothing can separate me from God’s love” (Romans 8:38).

Kids at school taking a test and using positive affirmations

Affirmations for Taking a Test

Researchers interested in the effects of affirmations on junior high school students found that students who used affirmations were more motivated to confront challenging tasks.(11) In addition, a positive mindset can help enhance creativity and increase problem-solving abilities.(12) Therefore, incorporating positive affirmations into pre-exam rituals could be the ticket to approaching tests with a more positive mindset and far less test anxiety.

Positive self-talk doesn’t have to be complicated. Many affirmations for kids taking a test are as simple as present-tense declarations, like, “I’ve studied and know this information” or “I will be calm and focused.” It’s a matter of believing in and manifesting calm, cool confidence.

  1. I am smart and capable of learning new things.
  2. I have a strong memory and can remember important information.
  3. I can focus and concentrate during tests and exams.
  4. I am prepared and have studied well for this test.
  5. I can overcome any challenges or obstacles that come my way.
  6. I am confident in my abilities to do my best on this test.
  7. I trust myself and my instincts when taking tests.
  8. I have a positive attitude and mindset towards tests and schoolwork.
  9. I am calm and relaxed during tests, which helps me focus better.
  10. I am proud of my hard work and effort in school, and I will continue to do my best.
  11. I am intelligent and capable of learning new things. I have a curious mind that is eager to explore and discover the world around me. I embrace challenges and seek out new opportunities to learn and grow every day.
  12. My memory is strong and reliable, and I can easily recall important information. I use various techniques to enhance my memory, such as repetition, visualization, and association. I am confident in my ability to remember what I have learned and apply it when needed.
  13. I am able to concentrate and focus during tests and exams. I create a quiet and distraction free environment where I can study and review the material. I use techniques such as deep breathing and visualization to stay calm and centered during tests, allowing me to perform at my best.
  14. I am always prepared for tests and exams. I study diligently and consistently, reviewing the material regularly and seeking help when needed. I use various study techniques, such as note taking, summarizing, and self testing, to ensure that I understand and remember the material.
  15. I am a resilient and resourceful learner, and I can overcome any challenges or obstacles that come my way. I have a growth mindset and view failures and setbacks as opportunities for learning and improvement. I seek out feedback and guidance from teachers and peers to help me overcome any difficulties.
  16. I am confident in my abilities and know that I can do my best on any test. I approach tests with a positive attitude and mindset, focusing on my strengths and abilities. I visualize myself performing well and achieving my goals, which gives me the confidence to succeed.
  17. I trust myself and my instincts when taking tests. I am confident in my abilities and knowledge and trust that I can make the right decisions and choices during the test. I listen to my intuition and make logical and reasoned choices, which helps me perform at my best.
  18. I can do anything I set my mind to. — Kobe Bryant
  19. I am confident in my abilities and always do my best. — Misty Copeland
  20. I am creative and have so much to offer the world. — Lin-Manuel Miranda

How Affirmations for Kids Can Boost Positive Thinking

Time and time again, studies found that daily affirmations make for more positive people.(2) Affirmations may:

  • Decrease stress
  • Lead to increases in physical activity (aka exercise)
  • Help people respond positively to harmful health messages, such as making positive dietary changes
  • Lower rumination

Positive affirmations have also been linked to improved academic achievement, helping kids with plummeting GPAs due to feelings of loneliness at college turn around that decline.

Incorporating affirmations into daily life may help kids develop their own systematic approach to schoolwork and related challenges, teaching them to think positively about difficult classes and reminding them that they can tackle even the most daunting exams. Mantras like “I am a hard worker” fly directly in the face of negative feelings about being academically lazy, while affirmations that speak of happiness, confidence, and feeling grateful can put kids in a better mood to master that upcoming test.

Positive people also influence other people to be more positive, a ripple effect that could make surrounding students more likely to succeed as well.(13)

A happy group of children practicing daily affirmations and playing

The Benefits of Practicing Daily Affirmations for Kids & Children

Positive daily affirmations offer numerous benefits for children who are looking for encouragement, love, and support as they find ways to manage their emotions and master developmental milestones.(14) Kids who use affirmations on a day-to-day basis can:

  • Learn to embrace their inner beauty
  • Build important skills like adopting a growth mindset
  • Find ways to manage negative thoughts and keep that negativity from derailing their day
  • Better cope with mental health challenges, using affirmations to self-regulate
  • Spread positivity by sharing affirmations and the positive effects those affirmations have had on their lives
  • Address mistakes not as unforgivable errors but as learning opportunities

It’s impossible to help kids avoid all the hard things in life, but parents and caregivers can prepare children for the world by giving them the tools they need to find self-confidence and construct systems that support overall well-being. Have kids read popular affirmations, then have them come up with some of their own that speak to their own concerns and questions. This way, they’re addressing specific challenges—like test taking or lapses in faith—while also developing a positive mindset in general.

Read In Order Of Posting