leave a little SPARKLE wherever you go…

Kids seem to have a natural sparkle and we, as parents, have a responsibility to make sure that they not only continue to shine, but also share their light with others. The best way of doing this is by showing them we have the ability to do the same. Everyone has the ability to leave a positive impression on anyone that they come in contact with. We all have an energy that radiates off of us, whether we’re aware of it or not. Someone can be having a bad day and your presence, a smile, a word from you can alter how they feel. Here are a few ways that you can leave a little sparkle…

be positive
Having a positive attitude shows through from the inside out. When you’re in a great mood, you feel lighter. You’re upbeat, smiling, walking with a swag that others can’t help but notice and be attracted to. You sparkle! It can be contagious and affect those that are fortunate to be around you. This, in turn, can change what may have been an ordinary day for someone into something much more special.

be complimentary
Saying something sincerely nice to a person can, oftentimes, bring a switch to their mood. The well-known author, Dale Carnegie gave a good example of this in his book, How to Win Friends and Influence People. He wrote about an encounter he had with a clerk at the post office. The clerk appeared bored with his job, dealing with the same duties day in and day out. Mr. Carnegie made it a challenge for himself to try to get the clerk to like him. He came up with a characteristic that the stranger possessed that he could honestly admire, and so he enthusiastically said, “ I certainly wish I had your head of hair.” This surprised the clerk who modestly replied that it wasn’t as good as it used to be, but he was definitely affected and proceeded to carry on a pleasant conversation that ended with him telling Mr. Carnegie: “Many people have admired my hair.” Dale Carnegie showed that by simply and most importantly, giving someone a genuine compliment, you can improve their disposition and the day they’re having.

be a good listener
Sparkling doesn’t only come from being a lively, talkative person. Having the ability to be a good listener can make you a bright light to someone who is going through a dark time. To give your undivided attention is worth so much to someone that just needs a friend to talk to. There’s a lot of value in talk therapy. When a person can get things out, that have been weighing on them, without judgment and sometimes even advice, it does so much for their mental well being. Having the special skill of being a good listener is a great way to leave that sparkle for somebody who may need it.

be childlike
Small children have almost an innate way of cheering those around them up, by just being around and being their lighthearted and carefree selves. We as adults can learn from them and know we have so much to offer by doing the same. Whether you’re loud and extroverted or more reserved, there are so many parts of you that people will appreciate. Put forth the effort to be genuine and less concerned with what others think. You’re going to leave your sparkle just by being you!




set an example
How can you help your kids? Set a good example of a positive influence and show your children how the smallest acts of kindness can have an impact on others. Whether it’s a genuine compliment, a listening ear, or the kindness within, our children can learn to leave their sparkle by seeing us not only doing these things for others but also receiving these same acts from us!

books to reinforce how to sparkle
As always, books can be a wonderful tool for inspiration and assistance when trying to convey these messages to our kids. We love You’re Here for a Reason by Nancy Tillman, that gives the beautiful message that we are loved, wanted and we matter. You Sparkle Inside by Rachel Kann is a beautifully illustrated book that will help share the message of how important your child is and how they can help others feel important too! Listen, Buddy by Helen Lester is a fun book that teaches kids how necessary and helpful it is when they are good listeners.

coloring fun
Please enjoy this free Tot Tails coloring page to help share this message with your child.