5 Phrases That All Parents Should Use

5 Phrases That All Parents Should Use
María Alejandra Castro Arbeláez

Reviewed and approved by the psychologist María Alejandra Castro Arbeláez.

Last update: 27 December, 2022

One skill that all parents should have at home is knowing what phrases to use in order to have adequate communication with all of their family members.

Saying the right words at the right time is important in order to help your children empower themselves.

If the relationship between parents and their children is strong and stable, their children are more likely to become balanced and successful adults.

In this article you’ll find several simple phrases that can help nourish the bond that you share with your children.

If you use these phrases, you’ll help promote qualities in your child such as: self-confidence, happiness and strong self-esteem. Take advantage of the moment to let your family know how important they are to you.

If you express yourself with affection and sincerity, your children will follow your example.

5 Phrases That All Parents Should Use

There is nothing that can compare to words and communication. There is nothing comparable to being able to speak to the right person at the right time when the person you are speaking to wants to listen and the person speaking wants to talk.

–Carmen Martín Gaite–

Words of encouragement: the phrases that all parents should use

  1. “I love you.” It is perhaps the most obvious and one of the most important. Children need to know that you love them and accept them unconditionally. Although it isn’t common to use this expression in certain contexts, it has the power to improve family dynamics. Say it often, avoid assuming that your partner and children already know it. These words trigger happiness and affection.
  2. “Keep going! Try it!” When an action they’re about to perform doesn’t put their integrity at risk, motivate them. Encourage them to take on the challenge. Help them believe in themselves and their abilities. Adulthood is a stage where challenges arise every day. If you prepare them as children to be daring and motivated, they’ll be capable and brave adults.
  3. “I am proud of you.” You don’t have to wait for a great achievement in your children’s lives before telling them that you’re proud of them. It’s important for them to know that you’re proud of what they are, not what they do. What they do is temporary, but what they are is eternal. Use this phrase when you see positive behavior or a value that you seek to encourage in them.
  4. “Say you’re sorry.” Sometimes during a heated argument, you may say something hurtful that you didn’t really mean. If this happens, it’s important to apologize. When you show humility, your children will respect you even more. They’ll learn that everyone makes mistakes and that they have to take responsibility for them.
  5. “I’m here for you, you can count on me.” As children grow, they start to demand more independence. They want to be free to choose their own paths. It’s important for parents to let them know that they will always be there for them.

Some extra tips…

5 Phrases That All Parents Should Use

Creating a family is an adventure that is full of joys, questions and doubts. How can you use these phrases? When should you use them?

  • Start little by little. Choose one of the phrases that you read and use it at least once in the following month. Then choose another one and start combining them day after day. Sometimes it’s difficult to express yourself, however it’s an important thing to do.
  • Complement these words with physical contact. There is nothing that speaks more sincerely than a special look or a hug.
  • Let them know that their opinion matters. In addition to telling them these nice phrases, listen to what they have to say.
  • Avoid saying things that you’ll regret later. Don’t respond with negative words when you’re upset. Negative sentences last longer in the mind than positive ones.
  • Recognize their achievements, big or small. Although, sometimes things don’t go as expected, they’ll always have opportunities to try again. Even when you have to correct inappropriate behavior, highlight their virtues as well.

This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.