Confidence Goes on Vacation, Too
Hi Parents & Caregivers, As both a psychologist and a mom, I know firsthand that traveling with children can be magical… and messy. From missed naps to packed car seats and snack negotiations, it’s a whole experience! But it’s also a powerful time to build confidence, strengthen family bonds, and teach resilience in real-time.Whether you're road-tripping, flying, or just heading to grandma's house, a little preparation—plus the power of positive affirmations—can go a long way.
Here are 5 therapist and mom-approved, affirmation-friendly tips for your next family getaway:
1. Create a Calm Start Begin your travel day with a grounding affirmation like:
“Today is a new adventure. I can handle anything that comes my way.” Saying this out loud together while getting dressed or eating breakfast sets the tone for calm confidence.
2. Prep a Positivity Kit
Pack a small bag of tools that help your child reset emotionally:
✔️ Affirmation cards for bravery and calm
✔️ A small travel pouch with fidgets or journals
✔️ A reusable water bottle with a confidence quote (yes, we’ve got those 😉)
✔️ Affirmation cards for bravery and calm
✔️ A small travel pouch with fidgets or journals
✔️ A reusable water bottle with a confidence quote (yes, we’ve got those 😉)
🧠 Why it works: It tells your child that they can access their own calm and confidence, even when routines change. Remind them: “When I feel overwhelmed, I have tools to help me feel better.”
3. Keep Expectations Realistic
Vacations aren't perfect, and that's okay. Build in downtime and stay flexible. If things go sideways, take a deep breath and practice the mantra:
“Mistakes happen. We can begin again.”
4. Empower Their Voice
Let your child help choose activities or snacks. Use this moment to affirm their decision making: “I am capable and my choices matter.” You can also use travel time for meaningful conversation. Here are some fun prompts:
- What’s your dream adventure?
- What’s something new you want to try this summer?
- What’s something kind you did this week?
5. End the Day with Reflection and gratitude
In my house, we reflect on the rose (good/best part), thorne (challenge) and buds (what we are looking forward to tomorrow).Take a few minutes to reflect on the best part of the day, the most challenging part of the day and what you’re looking forward to for the following day. Repeat an affirmation together like: “I am grateful for today and excited for tomorrow.” These simple practices aren’t just for the trip—they’re tools that nurture emotional resilience, self-awareness, and confidence in your child every day.
Wishing you peaceful travels and sunny memories.
With encouragement and travel snacks,
P.S. Planning your trip? Don’t forget to pack our affirmation tools — from tank tops and flip flops to journals and affirmation cards, they’re designed to go wherever your family goes. Check out our summer collection.