In this Issue: today we talk about tiny messages you can use to uplift your student when they need it
Did you happen to see the news this week about the Sesame Street character Elmo asking an innocent question:
NPR ran a story about the unexpected response – a lot of people were not doing ok. And Elmo and other readers commented to try and help. Here’s an excerpt:
“In many cases, commenters on the replies showed people sharing positive messages and practical advice with each other, encouraging people who are struggling to keep sharing, and working to make things better.
They are words we all need to say and messages we need to hear. And in one short message, Elmo reminded us to make time for each other, and listen.”
So today I thought it might be good to think about those times times when your Deac may need a little pick me up: maybe they are having a hard week, or a conflict with a friend, or a test coming up soon. Or maybe everything is going well, but hearing a positive word from their loved ones would make that day even brighter.
Here are 50 short phrases that you could keep in your back pocket and pull out from time to time to share with your Deac in quick text.
I love you.
I trust you.
You can do hard things.
I know you will figure this out.
You are capable.
I love how kind you are to others.
I admire how hard you work.
I appreciate how thoughtful you are to other people.
You have really cool interests.
I admire the fact that you aren’t afraid to be you.
I love hearing what you think about the world.
You are a responsible person.
You always seem to make other people feel at ease.
I admire how conscientious you are about your studies.
It’s fun to see you excited about this class/your major/your minor.
I have enjoyed getting to know your roommate/friends.
You know how to manage your time/workload/studies.
I’m proud of you.
I am so impressed with your ability to [insert].
I respect the choices you have made.
You make me/us proud.
I’m glad you are having fun.
You are passionate about [insert] and that is wonderful to see.
I admire your sense of fairness/honesty.
You treat other people with respect, and that matters to me.
It’s fun to be your mom/dad/etc.
I am learning new things because of you.
I admire you for asking for help when you need it.
It eases my mind to know that I can count on you to do the right thing.
I love hearing about your day/what you’re studying/etc.
You are smart.
You are brave.
I love you just the way you are.
You don’t have to be anyone but yourself.
Your worth isn’t tied to your grades/major/social life.
You matter to me.
You are capable of great things.
You have overcome obstacles before – you can do it again.
You are resilient.
I love that you don’t give up on the things you want to accomplish.
I’m glad you pay attention to your wellbeing.
I admire that you are an optimist. Things tend to work out in the end.
You always seem to find a way.
I am grateful that you are so trustworthy.
You live your life in a way that I am not worrying about you.
You are doing great.
You are worthy.
You matter.
I am proud of you for knowing that a mistake is not a permanent setback.
I love that you are willing to try new things.
Parents and families, you are the greatest source of love and support for your students. Your words have the power to uplift, support, affirm, and comfort. Use that power generously and often 🙂
