Using Mirror work for self esteem
Self esteem and confidence is one of the most important things a child needs as they grow up. Mirror work is a fantastic tool that can help children build their self esteem daily.
It is simple to do, although can be hard to start with, children will grow to enjoy it as they begin to accept themselves, see their qualities, strengths and abilities.
Mirror work can also help improve body image and help children feel more positive about themselves. Regular mirror work can help decrease feelings of self hatred as well as destructive thoughts and feelings of self- deprecations, shame, feeling unloved and unworthy and incapable.
To do Mirror Work, children sit comfortably in front of a mirror or hold a mirror up to their face. They look into the mirror, straight into their eyes and talk to themselves positively with positive affirmations. The affirmation is repeated very slowly and with meaning over and over.
Children focus and look deeply into their eyes as they repeat the affirmation. To start with, they may only be able to manage a couple of seconds, but in time, they will be able to do longer. It also helps if adults are doing this as well so modelling good practice.
Ideally start with the following affirmation. ‘I deeply and completely love and accept myself’
Here are some other affirmations that can be repeated.
- ‘I accept myself just the way I am’
- ‘I am OK’
- ‘I am special, unique and valuable’
- ‘I am deeply and completely loved’
- ‘I am safe’
- ‘I am a good person’
- ‘I am a wonderful person’
In time children will start to make up their own affirmations and enjoy the activity.
Here is a CD to help improve children’s self esteem – https://relaxkids.com/product/self-esteem/
