Last year I decided to handle this a bit differently. I was looking for ways to affirm my daughters for WHO THEY WERE. Not what they do/did. So, I developed "30 traits I am thankful for in you." I printed off a sheet with their picture, a Bible verse that I wanted them to know and a numbered list of 1-30.
Each morning before they got up, I would write down one trait that I was grateful for in my daughter. This wasn't easy! Coming up with 30 things that were different was a challenge but I did it. It was fun to see them get out of bed to see what new word I had written on their list. One year later, one of my daughters still has this hanging in her bedroom.
When looking for ways to express value to kids remember:
1. Affirm who they are, not what they do. Use character words to describe them. Loyal, honest, servant heart, etc.
2. Attach it to a key scripture that also shows their value in God's eyes.
3. Find ways to work these words into everyday life.....not just certain times of the year. You'll see that your kids will begin to see these traits in others too.
How about you? What ways do you affirm your kids for who they are?