10/20/2026
💡Words have a lasting impact, and this month’s from Dakota Ferraro, Behavior Specialist and lead teacher at Children’s Place, is a reminder of just how powerful they can be.
The way we speak to our children shapes the way they speak to themselves. 💙
“Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.” — Haim Ginott
Children are constantly learning who they are and what they’re capable of. The words they hear from trusted adults can become part of their inner voice, shaping how they see themselves, navigate challenges, and build relationships.
When a child makes a mistake or has a difficult moment, our response matters. Instead of “You never listen,” try “I know you can make a different choice.”
Instead of “That’s too hard for you,” try “This is tricky, but I believe you can keep trying.”
And rather than focusing on what went wrong, we can recognize the effort, courage, and progress it took to get there.
We won’t always find the perfect words. Parenting brings difficult moments, and correction is sometimes necessary. But even in those moments, we can hold our children accountabble while reminding them that they are loved, capable, and still learning.
When we lead with compassion, encouragement, and grace, we help children build a positive inner voice that supports their confidence and resilience long after childhood. 🙌
