A Little Book of Life Lessons for Young Kids

It is graduation time for students across the country.

That means that some of the world’s most notable figures are giving commencement speeches, imparting their wisdom upon students about to hit the real world.

Here are just a few of the famous faces who are gracing college campuses this season for commencement addresses:

But why wait until your kids graduate college (or rely on a celebrity) to give them important life lessons?

You can deliver terrific life advice to your kids by reading them the highly-recommended children’s book Make It A Good Day by Jennifer Universe.

I have two young kids (5 and 2) and have found that this little book has all of the practical tips to make each day a good one.

And I believe that lots of good days add up to make a good life.

Here are some of the simple lessons from the book for kids (and some back-up information for people of all ages!):

Put a smile on your face

In fact, even faking or forcing a smile reduces stress and makes you happier.

Drink water and stay hydrated

Water is the number one healthiest beverage to drink, according to the world’s top nutrition experts.

Don’t feel the need to rush

Giving your attention only to the task at hand enables you to accomplish more while feeling less anxious and less scatterbrained.

Take a deep breath

This simple act can be a pathway to stress reduction, mental clarity, and creativity.

Move your body

Exercise is the single most powerful tool you have to optimize your brain function.

Spend time in nature

Getting outside and connecting with nature is a powerful way to clear your mind and reduce stress.

Follow your imagination

Curiosity has been found to be just as important as intelligence in order to succeed and navigate our increasingly complex world.

Make sure to celebrate

One of the main reasons celebrating is so important is because it reflects an overall attitude of gratitude and enjoying what you have, instead of focusing on what you don’t have or only on what you want in the future.

And perhaps the most important lesson of all…

A good day is all in your head, you decide when you get out of bed

Attitude is a decision that we make every day, and choosing to have a good one builds relationships and opens doors like few other habits or behaviors can.

Make It A Good Day delivers all of these messages and more, in a fun and digestible way for young kids (complete with colorful illustrations and a playful rhyme).

So get the life lessons started early and help your kids to make each day a good one.

Andrew Merle writes about living well, including good habits for happiness, health, productivity, and success. Subscribe to his email list at andrewmerle.com.