We have spoken to OUR GRAY HAWKS about the importance of positive affirmations in our lives. Even at the age of 48, I still rely on positive affirmations to help me remain positive and on track.
But what exactly are positive affirmations? Put simply, they are statements that we repeat to ourselves to keep us in a positive mindset and challenge negative thought patterns that we can get into. There is a lot of research behind positive affirmation but the Positive Affirmation Theory was first introduced by Claude Steel in the early 80s. There is a lot of MRI evidence that shows how neural pathways are increased in the prefrontal cortex when people practice positive self-affirmations.
It is incredibly important that we teach OUR children (and even ourselves) the role positive self talk plays in impacting our sense of self-worth - especially when negative thoughts begin creeping in. If a person feels that they are unloved, unwanted, or worthless, they will behave in that way. However, if we believe we are special, unique, and loved, we will begin to view ourselves in that way.
Every morning our students hear the same message as a part of OUR GRAY HAWK Morning affirmation:
We want to remind you that you are strong, you are smart, and you are a leader. The world is better because you are in it. In case, you haven't heard it today, we love you. Believe in yourself friends, friends. Everyday is a new beginning. Take a deep breath and smile because at Gray Hawk we are a family.
This daily message builds upon so much of what we try to instill in OUR GARY HAWKS. There are messages of strength and positivity, making sure that they know they belong in our world, a reminder of a strategy when they are dysregulated (deep breath) and a message of believing in yourself. It is very important that children hear that they are loved every day as well! I would even argue that it is important that we as adults hear this message every day as well.
Recently, rapper, producer, tv and film star Snoop Dogg created a YouTube channel for kids that has an incredible Affirmation Song to share with kids. I have linked the affirmations videos below. His other songs and content on his Doggyland channel are aimed at shapes, learning letter sounds and so much more. Click on the DOGGYLAND photo below for an article about this new venture.
