By Madelaine Strydom
Ebook: 11 November 2026 · Paperback: January 2027
The words children hear become the voice they carry.
“You spilled the milk. Let’s get a cloth.”
“You’re so clumsy.”
One gives information. The other gives an identity. Words become beliefs, and beliefs become who a child thinks they are.
What If They Believe You? is a practical, gentle book about the everyday words we use with children: in the rush of the morning, at bedtime, in the middle of a meltdown, and on the hard days when the old words slip out. It is about keeping the boundary and changing the language.
Name it. Don’t claim it.
Read the first pages free
Start with the story of why I wrote this book, and a chapter on discipline that builds rather than breaks.
Pre-order the ebook
The ebook is available for pre-order now. When you pre-order, you’ll receive a thank-you download straight away, and the full ebook will be sent to you on launch day, 11 November 2026. The paperback follows in January 2027.
Plus a thank-you gift: my What Would I Say? app, with gentle words for 28 everyday hard moments, a private moments diary and calming sounds, on your phone.
Who this book is for
Parents and grandparents. Teachers. Single parents. Blended, adoptive and foster families. Anyone who loves a child and wants their words to help that child grow into a kinder inner voice.
About the author
Madelaine Strydom is a qualified teacher, writer, parent coach and speaker, and the founder of Gentle Words Studio in Durbanville, Cape Town. Her work brings together her experience in education and motherhood with a deep belief in every child’s potential.
While you wait
Start with my free printable, 5 Things to Say in the Middle of a Tantrum, or book a free Coaching Conversation if something at home feels hard right now.
Or try five moments for free in my What Would I Say? app: gentle words you can use straight away, the next time a hard moment comes.
Gentle Words, Strong Minds.