Words Matter: How Our Language Shapes a Child’s Self-Confidence

One of the most powerful gifts we can give the children in our lives, whether we’re parents, grandparents, or caring adults, is confidence. It helps them grow into secure, capable, and resilient individuals. But confidence doesn’t appear overnight, it’s built through the words we use and the messages we send every single day.

A Gentle Reminder: Words Leave Lasting Impressions

We’ve all had moments when we’ve spoken in frustration, tiredness, or worry. Life gets busy, and parenting isn’t easy. But even in those moments, the words we choose can either build a child up or quietly wear them down.

Children are incredibly perceptive. What may seem like a quick comment to us can echo in their minds long after the moment has passed. Words can help shape how they see themselves—and whether they feel valued and accepted.

Take a moment and ask yourself:
How did I speak to my child or grandchild today?
Were my words encouraging—or unintentionally discouraging?

Common Phrases That Can Hurt More Than We Realize

Here are a few everyday examples of phrases that may seem harmless at first but can have an emotional impact on a child’s self-esteem:

• “I don’t want to see your face right now, go to your room.”
  A child may interpret this as being unwanted or unloved, even if that’s far from what we meant.

• “Why can’t you be more like your sister/brother?”
  Comparisons can make children feel like they’re constantly falling short. Instead of motivating, it can leave them feeling inadequate or invisible.

• “That outfit looks too tight, don’t you have something better?”
  For growing teens, these types of comments can trigger body image issues and feelings of shame about their appearance.

The Good News: Positive Words Build Strong Foundations

Just as negative words can wound, positive words can heal and empower. They don’t have to be complicated or poetic—just honest and kind. Words like:

• “I’m proud of you.”

• “You matter.”

• “You did your best—that’s what counts.”

• “I love spending time with you.”

These small affirmations make a big impact. They help children believe in themselves, trust others, and feel secure enough to try, fail, and try again.

A Challenge—and an Invitation

Starting today, take a moment to really notice the words you use with the children in your life. Speak with intention. Lead with kindness. And if you catch yourself saying something less than helpful, it’s okay, you can always follow up with a hug, a listening ear, or a better choice of words.

Together, let’s raise children who feel seen, heard, and deeply loved, one thoughtful conversation at a time.

What words did you need to hear as a child? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s start a conversation about using language to lift up the next generation.

Summer time the living is easy, but the jokes are still bad :-)

Summer is here, so here are 30 dad jokes for June, to break the mindset of the past few days so we can get on the Bright side of life

Why did the sun go to school?

To get a little brighter!

Why don’t mountains ever get tired?

Because they always peak performance!

What do you call a snowman in June?

A puddle.

Why did the bike fall over on summer vacation?

It was two-tired from all the fun!

Why do fish never do well in school over the summer?

They’re always caught hooky.

What did one beach say to the other?

Long time no sea!

Why was the math book sad on summer break?

It had too many problems and nowhere to log off.

How do trees access the internet during a hike?

They log in!

Why don’t seagulls fly over the campground?

Because then they’d be bagels!

Why did the camper bring a ladder to the lake?

To go swimming up stream.

Why are dads like summer days?

Because they’re warm, a little too loud, and sometimes make you sweat.

What do you call friends who go camping together?

In-tents buddies.

Why didn’t the sun go to the party?

Because it was already lit.

Why did the banana wear sunscreen?

It didn’t want to peel.

Why was the ocean so friendly in June?

It always gave a wave.

What do hikers use to stay cool?

Trail mix fans.

How do you know if someone went on a biking trip?

Don’t worry—they’ll cycle back to it in every conversation.

What did the flip-flop say to the foot?

I’ve got you covered, toe-tally.

Why was the ice cream invited to the picnic?

It was a real cool treat.

Why don’t summer travelers ever get lost?

Because they always follow the sun.

Why was the hiking trail always full in June?

Word of mouth really spread like wildfire.

Why did the tourist bring a pencil to the beach?

To draw the shoreline.

Why did the watermelon have a party?

Because it was one in a melon.

Why do swimmers make terrible secret agents?

Because they always splash the news.

Why did the canoe break up with the paddle?

It felt row-mantically unbalanced.

What do you call a group of musical friends traveling together?

A band trip.

Why don’t picnic baskets ever get lonely?

They always bring plenty of snacks to mingle with.

What’s a surfer’s favorite kind of party?

A wave rave!

Why do dads love telling jokes in the summer?

Because they’re seasoned professionals.

Why did the sun get a job at the travel agency?

It wanted to help people rise and shine all over the world.

💡 Your Action Plan

 💡 Your Action Plan

Here’s a simple checklist to get started or keep going on your retirement plan:

✅ Review your current savings
✅ Check your TFSA and RRSP contribution room
✅ Estimate your CPP and OAS benefits
✅ Explore housing options in your area
✅ Book a free consultation with your bank or a certified advisor
✅ Talk to your spouse or partner about your joint goals
✅ Download your province’s retirement or seniors planning guide
✅ Keep learning—use trustworthy sources and update your plan regularly

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📎 Helpful Links and Tools

·     Retirement Income Calculator (Government of Canada)

·     My Service Canada Account – Track CPP/OAS

·     Financial Consumer Agency of Canada – RetirementPlanning

·     Home Accessibility Tax Credit

·      Canada Benefits Finder

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Final Thought: Retirement Isn’t a Deadline—It’s an Opportunity

You don’t need to have it all figured out today. What matters most is that you begin. Planning for retirement is a gift to your future self—a way to ensure that your next chapter is lived with dignity, security, and joy.

And remember, you’re not alone. There are resources, people, and ideas to help you every step of the way.

Let today be the day you take that next small step. You’ve got this.

Redefining Purpose: How to Thrive Emotionally in Retirement

 Why This Matters

For decades, we build our identities around our work:

·         “What do you do?” becomes “Who you are.”

·         Colleagues become friends.

·         Schedules keep us grounded.

·         Deadlines and goals give us purpose.

Then retirement hits—and the silence can be deafening.

Many retirees are caught off guard by feelings of:

·         Loneliness or isolation

·         A loss of identity or relevance

·         Boredom or lack of motivation

·         Depression or anxiety

·         Grief over lost routines or roles

Planning for the emotional transition is just as important as saving money. You can retire from work, but you don’t retire from life.

What You Can Do to Stay Mentally and Socially Well

💬 1. Acknowledge the Losses

It’s okay to grieve what you’re leaving behind. Giving yourself permission to feel uncertain or sad is the first step toward adjusting and rebuilding.

🧭 2. Create New Purpose

Ask yourself:

·         What gives my life meaning now?

·         How can I use my skills in new ways?

·         What have I always wanted to try, but never had the time?

You might find purpose in:

·         Volunteering

·         Mentoring younger people

·         Starting a small side business

·         Taking classes or teaching something you love

·         Getting involved in causes you care about

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 3. Nurture Your Social Life

Isolation is a real risk for retirees—especially if your job was your main social outlet.

Ideas to stay connected:

·         Join community groups or clubs

·         Attend local events or talks

·         Schedule regular calls or lunches with former coworkers

·         Get involved in faith-based or cultural organizations

·         Use online platforms to stay in touch with friends and family

🧠 4. Stay Mentally Active

Challenge your mind and keep your brain engaged:

·         Read daily

·         Learn new skills or hobbies

·         Do puzzles or games

·         Explore lifelong learning opportunities through libraries or universities

💪 5. Move Your Body

Physical activity is deeply connected to emotional well-being.

·         Take daily walks

·         Join a yoga or stretching class

·         Dance, swim, cycle—anything you enjoy

Exercise lifts mood, builds routine, and helps stave off cognitive decline.

💖 6. Talk About It

Sometimes we just need someone to listen.

·         Talk with your partner, friends, or adult children

·         Join retirement or support groups (many are free or online)

·         Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you’re struggling

Resources You Can Explore

·         CMHA – Mental Health and Aging

·         Wellness Together Canada – Free Mental Health Support

·         U of T Later Life Learning

·         Volunteer Canada – Find a Role Near You

·         [Senior Centres & Community Recreation Programs – Check your local listings]

Final Thoughts

Retirement isn’t just about having enough money—it’s about having enough meaning.
You’re not alone in this transition. There’s a whole world waiting for your time, energy, wisdom, and curiosity.

Think of this new phase as a canvas. You don’t have to replicate your past—you get to reinvent your purpose on your own terms.