Cara started Grade 1 in January and the year got off to a bit of a rocky start. Our girl suffers from social anxiety and low self-esteem. Most people who know her will think I’m crazy for saying this, but I know my child. She’s struggling in class. We are doing all that we can to make this year a good one for her. This includes therapies and medication, but that’s a post for another day. I’ve read many articles about positive affirmations for kids and I’ve decided to try it.

We are what we think.

I want to teach Cara the benefits of positive thinking and self-empowerment and I’m hoping to boost her self-esteem and confidence by repeating these affirmations and quotes every day. I want her to know how amazing she is and that she is worthy. I want her to believe in herself.

Positive Affirmations for Kids

I love myself

I am proud to be me

I am special

I am kind

I am brave

I always try my best

I am helpful

I am loved

I am a fun person

I always say please and thank you

I am in control of my emotions

I care for the earth and all of God’s creatures

I treat others the way I want them to treat me

My family, friends and teachers love me for who I am

My parents are proud of me

I listen to my parents and teachers and obey the rules

I am a good sport; I follow the rules, take turns and play fair

I treat everyone with respect

I do not give up; I will keep trying until I can do my work

I am grateful for what I have and I share with others

I have courage to stand up for children who are teased

I can do anything I put my mind to

I am my own superhero

I take care of my body

I am beautiful

Do you use positive affirmations? Have you tried them with your kids? I’d love to know!

xoxo

We haven’t had the opportunity to fly as a family yet, but hopefully we can get that chance soon. If Cara had her way, Paris would be the destination. My girl wants to see the Eiffel Tower. One day, my girl. One day! I’m not sure we’ll survive a flight to Europe on the first go, so perhaps a local ‘test run’ like Travelstart’s return flights to Cape Town will be a fun experience for us all. Plus we can visit a few friends that we haven’t seen in years. These top tips for flying with children will come in very handy when we do.

Flying with Children – tips for stress-free travel

Travelstart recently sent through their top tips for flying with children and the info is invaluable! Especially if you will be flying with babies or toddlers. Make sure to save the below infographic.

Flying with kids

Travelstart really has a few fantastic tips here!

Number 1 for Cara would be the fully charged tablet. This child is obsessed with her tablet. I think it would also be a great idea to load a few new games and movies as a surprise. Also pack your child’s own headphones. Then you know that they fit perfectly and if they are noise cancelling, even better.

Small gifts are also a great idea. Who doesn’t like a pressie? Gifts like family-friendly travel games and a new colouring or activity book should work like a charm to keep boredom at bay.

I love the tip about the chewy snacks to help alleviate inner ear discomfort. This is one that I never would have thought of myself. Make sure to pack loads of snacks. And if you kid isn’t sensitive to sugar, pack that favourite treat. Who hasn’t used a sweet treat as a bribe now and then? Come on; you know you have ;)

Other items to pack include wet wipes, an extra set of clothes (because that dreaded spill WILL happen if you’re not prepared – Thanks Murphy), socks and a favourite blankie, teddy or small pillow if your kid has one of those.

If you child is old enough to understand, I think its best to have a long chat before the flight. Talk to the kids about manners and the fact that they have to be considerate towards all the other passengers.

My last tip may be the most important one. If you have done all you can to ensure that the flight runs smoothly, ignore any and all condescending jerks that may be on the flight with you. Most people are very understanding, but there are a few… Kids will be kids and flying can be a stressful experience for them. Especially the little ones. If the kids start acting up and you’ve already tried everything – just smile and wave, mom and dad. Smile and wave.

Travelstart asked a few parents how they manage to get around flying with their children and here are some of their top tips.

If you have any additional tips, please feel free to share.

Planning a trip? Why not check out Travelstart’s Cheap Flights From Johannesburg To Cape Town

Happy travels!

xoxo

Disclaimer: This post was done in collaboration with Travelstart.