Dear Parents,
"The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice."
Early in my parenting journey, I discovered the work of Peggy O'Mara, longtime editor of Mothering Magazine and a passionate advocate for children and families. Her message has stayed with me over the years because it speaks to something so important: the words and tone we use with children help shape how they see themselves, relate to others, and navigate challenges.
During the early years, children absorb far more than we realize. Encouraging, respectful, and compassionate language becomes part of their emotional foundation. Likewise, critical or shaming words can add to that foundation as well. The words we choose as parents, teachers, and caregivers contribute to the formation of a child’s character- influencing their beliefs, choices, and coping patterns they carry into adulthood.
As this school year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the sounds that fill our learning spaces. I hear statements of observation, acknowledgments of feelings, words of validation and encouragement, and respectful exchanges between children and teachers. I witness patience, compassion, and guidance that empowers children while nurturing their growing independence. I listen to children using words to express, describe and explain. And I notice an abundance of grace and compassion between children and adults alike. These sounds are truly music to my ears.
More importantly, these sounds reflect the heart of our philosophy- respecting the learning process through play, supporting the child’s intrinsically motivated behaviors, and guiding social interactions with empathy and respect. Children practice the essential skills of tolerance as they learn to share space, materials, and ideas; resilience as they recover from physical and emotional upsets; and self-advocacy as they learn to express their thoughts, needs, and beliefs with confidence.
To remember that- the way we speak to our children becomes their inner voice- and to remain mindful of the impact our own, sometimes subtle, word choices can have during these impressionable years- is to help grow a child who approaches the world with confidence, self-assurance, and a continued love of learning.
This summer- in between bike rides around the block, cannonballs in the pool, and family adventures near and far- I hope you find meaningful moments of connection with your children through your words, listening to their words, and observation of their learning as it unfolds.
Warmly,
Susan
