10 Ways to Build Self-Confidence

Why Confidence Matters

Confidence helps kids try new things, speak up, bounce back from mistakes, and believe in themselves. Think of confidence like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets.

1. Try New Things

• Do something small that you’ve never tried before—like joining a new game or reading a harder book.
• New experiences help your brain learn what you can do, not just what you already know.

Example: Trying soccer for the first time might show you that you run faster than you thought.

2. Practice a Skill Until You Improve

• Confidence grows through progress, not perfection.
• Set a tiny goal and practice a little every day.

Example: Learning to draw hands may start messy, but 10 minutes a day makes a big difference.

3. Speak Kindly to Yourself

• The way you talk to yourself matters.
• Replace mean thoughts with helpful ones.

Example:
Instead of: “I can’t do this.”
Try: “I’m still learning.”

4. Celebrate Small Wins

• Every win counts—even tiny ones.
• Write them down in a journal or share with a parent/friend.

Why it helps: Success reminders boost courage when challenges show up.

5. Help Others

• Confidence grows when you make a difference.
• Share, volunteer, or encourage someone who feels nervous.

Example: Inviting a lonely classmate to play builds confidence for both of you.

6. Stand Tall (Power Posture)

• Body language affects how you feel on the inside.
• Stand up straight, shoulders back, eyes forward.

Why: When your body looks confident, your brain follows.

7. Use Positive Role Models

• Look up to people who inspire you—fictional or real.
• Notice how they handle problems and try similar strategies.

Example: A favorite superhero may teach courage, while a teacher might model patience.

8. Learn From Mistakes

• Mistakes aren’t failures—they are information.
• Ask yourself: “What can I try differently next time?”

Why: Kids who bounce back develop resilience, which fuels confidence.

9. Set Personal Goals

• Choose goals based on what you want, not what others expect.
• Break them into steps so they feel doable.

Example: If you want to join the spelling team, start by learning five new words a week.

10. Surround Yourself With Support

• Spend time with people who cheer you on, not put you down.
• Friends, teachers, coaches, and family can help you grow.

Why: Supportive environments make courage easier.

Bonus Confidence Affirmations

• “I can learn hard things.”
• “My voice matters.”
• “I don’t have to be perfect to be proud of myself.”

Trusted Resources to Explore

• KidsHealth Confidence Tips: https://kidshealth.org
• Verywell Mind – Self-Esteem for Kids: Verywell Mind
• APA Resilience Research: https://www.apa.org/topics/resilience

Confidence grows slowly, like planting a seed—water it every day and watch it bloom into something strong and unstoppable.