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If we said this one thing to every child we encounter, what a difference it would make. And if we say it to ourselves, too, even better!
The One Thing We Need to Say (and Hear)
School starts tomorrow in my neck of the woods, and despite all I do to prepare in the weeks before classes start, I never feel prepared. But after teaching for more than 30 years, I’ve learned one essential truth. A truth you can use in your interactions with young people, whether you’re a parent, teacher, librarian, bus driver, or any other variety of human being who sees a youngster.
You can combat the ill that dodges our society with a simple three-word sentence. Not saying these three words (or their equivalent) results in poor grades. Lake of motivation. Depression. Problems relating to other students and or teachers. Failure to live up to intelligence. Violence.
How can we as parents and adults help children avoid these things? A three-word sentence will do the trick. But before we can say it, we may need to work on our own inner thoughts and dialogues. Today’s podcast will show you how to say the one thing people need to hear.
Show Notes
I highly recommend reading The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie.
If you haven’t read or watched The Help, do it today! Here’s the most powerful scene in the movie.
Ever heard of Emotional Intelligence? Check out this post.
This post will explain why we need to take care of ourselves.
The Five Love Languages website offers free quizzes to help you discover your love languages and those of your family members.
Dealing with the bully in your life will help you be a better parent, too!
Come Back Next Week
Next week I share what I’ve learned about bedtime routines…for grownups!

- Welcome to the Inspire Me Monday Community! The link-up opens Sundays at 4 pm, Arizona time.
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May God bless you with patience, wisdom, and words as you begin a fresh school year, Anita!
Lisa notes recently posted…When You Become a Different Person —Grace & Truth Linkup
Words are such powerful things Anita! Thank you for highlighting & reminding us of this today.
Blessings,
Jennifer
Tea With Jennifer recently posted…Behaviour that needs your attention!
Blessings to you as you began a new school year!
Michele+Morin recently posted…Embrace a Life of Restful Exertion to Counteract a Self-Help Culture
Oh Anita! I ❤️ The Help!
I try to remind myself everyday that my interaction with a child may be the only bright spot in their day. Many of our students come from VERY difficult home situations so we (my bus attendant & I) do what we can to make their time with us safe, loving and fun!
Barb Hegreberg recently posted…6 Word Poetry #79
Thank you, Anita! Wonderful message. I love the movie, “The Help” and of course, that’s my favorite part and line in the movie!
Great Encouragement!
Lisa Blair recently posted…Hearing God’s Voice?
Children are like sponges, which is why it’s so important to mind our words around them and also take the time to tell them what they need to hear.
I loved your podcast and the idea of speak well of yourself and your children.
This was such a powerful podcast and message, Anita. I have read all of Sherman Alexie’s works many years ago and I think I need to revisit them again now. Thank you for always sharing your experiences and wisdom!
Shelbee
Yes, the words we say, especially to children, are so important! And I enjoyed The Help too.
Thank you for reminding even me that I am smart, kind, and important too! I will need to watch that movie again! As you begin anew with your 30-year teaching career, I lift you up and praise the Lord for you. The kids you touch, Anita, are truly blessed! I will begin a new volunteer job in my new city in a couple of weeks…I will be helping a kindergarten teacher twice a week during writing, STEAM, and reading. Actually, I will be assisting her for the writing and reading and learning all about STEAM! They added art in the midst of STEM! I taught those back in my days of teaching but now it is within a new framework! Thank you for sharing you words with us. I am adding the book to my TBR list too!
~ linda recently posted…I am Your Clay, Lord
Hi Anita,
Wonderful podcast and tips! One person can make a difference–often that person is a coach or teacher. Educators have a special opportunity to speak hope into the lives of young people.
Blessings on your year!
Tammy
Love this! My daughter repeats this decalaration from The Help every time it is her turn to drive the twins to school.
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