The Power of Words: How Hypnosis Suggestions Create Positive Changes in Children
- Sara
- May 21
- 3 min read
Learn in this article how suggestions in hypnosis affect children and adolescents, and how they can promote positive changes.
What are suggestions?
Suggestions are the heart of hypnosis and the main tool of a hypnotherapist. They are valuable instruments that can help the subconscious change behavior patterns and belief systems. In children, they can be especially effective, as their imagination is often more vivid than that of adults.
In general, four types of suggestions can be distinguished.
1. Direct Suggestions in Hypnosis
Direct suggestions are expressed clearly and straightforwardly. They include positive statements or instructions that promote the desired behavior or change.
Example of a direct suggestion: “You feel calm and relaxed.”
2. Indirect Suggestions in Hypnosis
Indirect suggestions are formulated more subtly and use metaphors, stories, and analogies to reach the subconscious. They leave room for interpretation and open up new perspectives.
Indirect suggestions appeal to creative thinking and imagination, which is how they take effect.
3. Implicit Suggestions in Hypnosis
Implicit suggestions are not stated directly but are conveyed through specific words, tones, or imagery.
Example of an implicit suggestion: gentle whispering that suggests calmness and relaxation.
4. Post-Hypnotic Suggestions in Hypnosis
Post-hypnotic suggestions are given during the hypnosis session but take effect only afterward. They are used to support and reinforce the desired behavior or change in everyday life. Post-hypnotic suggestions can help establish new habits or strengthen self-confidence.
How Suggestions Work in Children
Suggestions work best when the following points are considered:
Positive reinforcement: Children respond particularly well to positive reinforcement. A suggestion like “You can do it!” can work wonders.
Creative metaphors: Stories and metaphors are captivating for children. Indirect suggestions can be embedded in such stories to help children cope with challenges.
Deepening the trance state: Suggestions can also be used to deepen the trance in children by encouraging them to relax deeply and feel safe in their inner world.
Applications of Suggestions in Hypnosis for Children and Adolescents
While suggestions are useful in many therapeutic contexts, they are especially effective for:
Fears and phobias
Sleep problems
Self-confidence issues
School-related challenges, such as concentration problems
Emotional challenges, such as coping with separation or grief
Examples of Positive Suggestions for Children and Adolescents
It is essential that suggestions are phrased positively and encouragingly. Here are some examples hypnotherapists might use:
“Every night you sleep deeply and soundly and wake up refreshed and full of energy.”
“You are strong and brave, and you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.”
“Learning becomes easier for you every day, and you enjoy the process of learning.”
“You are loved and appreciated just the way you are.”
“Each time you face a challenge, your self-confidence grows.”
Benefits of Using Positive Suggestions with Children
Boosting self-esteem: Children learn to believe in their abilities and to see themselves as valuable and capable.
Promoting self-regulation: Children can learn to better manage their emotions and cope with stress.
Skill development: Suggestions can help children learn new skills or improve existing ones, such as social or academic abilities.
Support in coping: Suggestions can assist children in adjusting to and dealing with difficult life events.
Summary
Suggestions in hypnosis are a powerful tool for bringing about positive changes in the lives of children and adolescents. Hypnotherapists like Sara use them with great care and expertise to ensure they serve the best interest of the child. They choose the appropriate suggestions and gently integrate them into the hypnotic state.
It’s important to understand that suggestions in hypnosis are always tailored to the individual goals and needs of the client.
With targeted suggestions, positive changes can be achieved in many areas, such as anxiety, phobias, low self-confidence, or unhealthy habits.
By understanding how suggestions work, you as parents and guardians can better decide whether hypnotherapy is the right option for your child.
All our children deserve the best opportunities to develop and grow—and hypnosis can be one of those valuable tools.
I hope this article was interesting and helpful to you.
Whenever you're ready, I can support you in two ways:
Through hypnosis sessions, where we work together to find solutions to your concerns
Through workshops and lectures on hypnosis for children, adolescents, and families
Simply book an appointment with me for an introductory meeting.
I look forward to meeting you.
Yours, Sara
