Affirmation Paper

by: Third Grade Teachers Lynn Frankenberger and Kristie Kerber

Every child faces moments at school when learning feels hard. In those moments, what a child tells themselves can make all the difference. Affirmations give children the words they need to build confidence, resilience, and a positive mindset.

In third grade, we began a discussion about self-love and what it really means. We talked about how, when negative thoughts pop into our heads, we need an “armor of positive affirmations.” For example: I’m not good at soccer. I am bad at math. I’m not as good of a drawer as my friend. Everyone has a voice in their head. Sometimes it’s helpful, and sometimes it’s not. Affirmations help us train our inner voice to be encouraging instead of critical.

We also discussed when we might need an affirmation—before a test, after making a mistake, or when feeling nervous or sad. These are the moments when positive self-talk matters most.

The students were given a list of 100 positive thoughts and affirmations and asked to highlight 10–15 that felt true about themselves. Some examples included: I forgive myself for my mistakes. I am capable of so much. I accept who I am. I have the power to make my dreams come true. I am going to push through. I choose my own attitude. I am going to take a chance. I can control my own happiness.

Next, students completed a three-column chart: What I’m Good At, Things I Love About My Personality, and Things I Can’t Do YET. The word yet was especially important, as it reminds us that growth is always possible. The children thoughtfully reflected and filled their charts with strengths, positive qualities, and goals they are still working toward.

From there, they used their charts to write a Love Letter to themselves. In the first paragraph, they wrote about the things they love about who they are. Their words were powerful and heartfelt. One student wrote, “When you are kind, your whole body fills with joy.” Another shared, “I love that your heart is eager to help people when they are hurt.” One wrote, “I love that you are in charge of yourself,” and another reminded themselves, “You are in control of your happiness.”

Students also celebrated their courage and perseverance. One wrote, “I love that when you fall down, you get right back up.” Another shared, “I love that when you do something hard, you feel that you are the bravest you've ever been.” Others reflected their compassion and faith, writing, “I love that you stand up for others,” and “I love that you put others and God in front of you.”

In their final paragraphs, students gave themselves advice for hard moments. One powerful reminder read, “When you think that you're not good enough, you say that you are perfect the way that you are.” Their words were honest, brave, and deeply encouraging.

To celebrate their unique qualities, students also chose several character traits from a list that they felt described them. They glued these traits onto a heart that they decorated, creating a visual reminder of the qualities that make them who they are.

This activity was more than just writing—it was about building confidence from the inside out. Our hope is that when challenges arise, each child will remember the words they wrote, look back at their decorated hearts, and put on their “armor” of affirmations. They are capable, growing, and wonderfully made—and learning to believe that is one of the most important lessons of all.