The inner voice is that internal monologue we hear in the back of our minds. It’s the voice that tells us stories about ourselves and others, determines how we interpret the world around us, and directs the decisions we make throughout our lives.  

Children are not born with an inner voice; it is formed in early childhood by the messages they hear from their parents, caregivers, and loved ones. In the early stages of development, the inner voice is not a personal experience but a shared one between child and caregivers. The things we say to our little ones and the behaviors we model become their inner voice.  

Once the inner voice is established, what is said in our head and out loud become our identity. We are the creator of our story and what we say, what we focus on, become our reality. A strong and positive inner voice tells us we are capable when faced with challenges; it helps us make decisions that have a positive impact on our lives.

Affirmations help take external praise like “You did a good job” and internalize it into “I did a good job.” It allows a child to start saying positive statements about themselves and helps shape their inner voice into one that is strong and supportive.

Slumberkins uses interactive affirmations and supportive narratives to promote positive messaging and the development of a strong inner voice — helping parents and caregivers raise resilient, caring, and confident children.