Boost Your Child’s Self-Esteem: Powerful Ways to Raise a Confident Child

Self-esteem in a child determines their mental health, social skills and success in life. Developing confidence in children supports navigating life experiences, adversities, and opportunities with resilience and optimism. Here we discuss some effective ways to raise a confident child and improve a childhood child’s confidence and self-worth.



Self-esteem is how a child views themselves and their abilities. Good self-esteem enables children to take risks, form close connections, and bounce back from failures. Though, low self-esteem can cause anxiety, self-doubt and lack of trying new things. Having a positive self-image at an early age instills confidence for the rest of a young girl's life.



By positive reinforcement we mean praise. Only praise the process, not just the results. So instead of saying, “You’re so smart,” you might say, “I love how hard you worked on that project!” This encourages a growth mindset, as it teaches them perseverance and that hard work pays off.

Give kids choices that are appropriate for their age, from what they want to wear, to what they want to read, to how they want to spend free time. It encourages autonomy and builds confidence in choosing.

Confidence is built in children by succeeding. Give them the assignment of helping you out, and ensure its one they can succeed in, like organizing toys helping in the kitchen or watering plants. Every success, regardless of its size, reinforces their confidence in their abilities.

Life needs surprises, and failure is one of the greatest ones. Help children find ways to see mistakes as learning opportunities, as opposed to failures. Do not scold an employee; provide instructions on how to solve a problem, and remind them that making mistakes is a step towards improvement.

Children tend to form inner monologues from the feedback directed towards them from the outside world. Encourage them to counter negative self-talk with phrases like “I can do this” or “I am capable.” Modeling this behavior in your relationship can make a big difference.



Children need to know they are loved just for being who they are. Reassure them in words and actions that you love and appreciate them, and that their value is not linked to how well they perform.

Give the kids an opportunity to try new things and see what resonates with them. Whether it’s sports, music, art, or science, pursuing hobbies helps them develop competence and confidence.

Positive social interactions contribute to the child’s self-esteem. It is important to foster playdates, team participation, and open dialogue to allow them to forge strong friendships and refine their communications skills.

Every child is unique. But comparing them to their siblings or peers can harm their confidence. Instead, see individual capabilities, personality types and growth.

Children are observant and learn from adults. Model self-assurance, optimism, and healthy ways to cope. Teach them how to face challenges with resilience and positivity.



These self-worth unblocker exercises in kids can be reassuring in maintaining a confident self image. Here are a few ideas:

Each day have kids write three things that they value in themselves.

Make a stack of positive phrases they can say out loud every morning.

Imagine the different situations, such as making new friends or speaking in front of a class.

They have been a reflection of their skills and achievements, let them be creative--draw, paint or art craft something that represents their abilities.

Assisting others gives rise to purpose and self-worth.

The importance of positive reinforcement in building a child’s self-esteem cannot be underestimated. Celebrate those efforts, verbally, with small celebrations or with quality time together. When children are seen and heard, their confidence develops.



It takes time, patience and consistency to build a child’s self-esteem. You can develop your child’s unshakeable confidence by creating a positive and nurturing environment, encouraging them in the passions and endeavors they enjoy, as well as teaching them the principles of resilience. A confident child today is a self-assured, successful adult tomorrow.

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