Easy, effective self-esteem activities for kids

Real families, real results.

Real families, real results.

Join 6+ million financially smart kids, teens, and parents learning to earn, save, and invest together!

Try Greenlight today

Self-esteem is critical for happiness and success at all stages of life! Kids and teens who have healthy self-esteem can grow into adults who aren’t afraid to dream big. Here are some of the best activities to help your child build confidence and a strong sense of self-worth:

1. License to create: Gather some recyclable materials and encourage your child to dream up something unique. Self-expression fosters creativity, which can build self-confidence, too. 

2. Gratitude jars: Whenever your child is thankful for something, have them write it down and put it in a cute jar or box. It helps kids notice and appreciate the good things in life, which can also improve their overall well-being.

3. Affirmations: Encourage kids to come up with positive statements about themselves. Repeat these affirmations regularly to make a habit of positive self-talk and boost self-esteem.

4. Bucket list: Ask your kids to write down what they want to do in the upcoming days, weeks, or months. Achieving these goals can give them a sense of accomplishment and give them positive things to look forward to.

5. Pride and joy: Invite your kids to regularly write down things they're proud of, whether it’s grades, achievements, skills, or even qualities they admire about themselves.

6. Packing party: For the next overnight or family trip, let your child pack themselves! It teaches them responsibility and builds confidence as they learn to make decisions independently.

The goal here is to help kids develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. As parents, it's our responsibility to provide them with opportunities to grow and become the best versions of themselves.

Another great way to build self-esteem and confidence is through financial responsibility and healthy money habits. Try the Greenlight family finance app to help kids build money-savvy skills safely.