The following children's books on self-esteem promote a positive self-image, taking responsibility for their actions, making positive life choices, and standing up for themselves.
Lately, I have been learning about the difference between self-esteem and self-confidence. I have begun to identify my children's unique talents and strengths. Self-confidence leads to better academic performance, resilience, well-being, and happiness.
My goal this year is to understand who my kids are, recognize their strengths, and have the confidence to go where their talents and interests lie. I am learning that identifying our children's natural talents, strengths, and gifts can be one of our most important parenting tasks.
The Smart Cookie
by Jory John (Author), Pete Oswald (Illustrator)
This cookie has never felt like a smart cookie no matter how hard she tries, especially in comparison to all the clever cupcakes and brilliant rolls in the bakery. Will a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of confidence be enough to help her learn that perfect scores and having all the answers aren’t the only ingredients for intelligence?
The Wonderful Things You Will Be
The New York Times bestseller that celebrates the dreams, acceptance, and love that parents have for their children . . . now and forever. This is the perfect heartfelt Valentine’s day gift for kids of all ages, plus a great choice for baby showers, birthdays, graduations, and other new beginnings!
I'm Gonna Like Me: Letting Off a Little Self-Esteem
Celebrate liking yourself! Through alternating points of view, a girl's and a boy's, Jamie Lee Curtis's triumphant text, and Laura Cornell's lively artwork show kids that the key to feeling good is liking yourself because you are you.
I'm Gonna Like Me will have kids letting off some self-esteem in no time!
I Am Enough
by Grace Byers
This gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another comes from Empire actor and activist Grace Byers and talented newcomer artist Keturah A. Bobo.
We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it.
Incredible Me!
by Kathi Appelt
Join a rambunctious child as she exuberantly celebrates all the wonderful qualities that make her special -- her nose, her toes, her ears, herself!
Award winners Kathi Appelt and G. Brian Karas team up to create this joyous tribute to the wonders of being ... ME!
Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Having the Courage To Be Who You Are
Readers of all ages can empathize with Lucy’s brave journey as she sets out to rise above Ralph’s mean words, stay true to herself, and build her self-esteem every step of the way.
Lucinda Belinda Melinda McCool
The most beautiful girl in the whole of the school is Lucinda Belinda Melinda McCool—but Lucinda Belinda feels it is her duty to guide all her friends in the subject of beauty. Lucinda becomes the scourge of family and friends, criticizing big bottoms and mustaches (especially her grandma's) until everyone avoids her. So when Lucinda meets a monster in the forest, she makes it her mission to makeover this scary creature. Unfortunately changing its outside does not change what's inside—as Lucinda Belinda discovers!
The Bad Seed Kindle Edition
by Jory John
This is a book about a bad seed. A baaaaaad seed. How bad? Do you really want to know?
He has a bad temper, bad manners, and a bad attitude. He’s been bad since he can remember! This seed cuts in line every time stares at everybody and never listens. But what happens when one mischievous little seed changes his mind about himself and decides that he wants to be—happy? Perfect for readers young and old, The Bad Seed proves that positive change is possible for each and every one of us.
The Good Egg
by Jory John
Meet the good egg. He’s a verrrrrry good egg indeed. But trying to be so good is hard when everyone else is plain ol’ rotten. As the other eggs in the dozen behave badly, the good egg starts to crack from all the pressure of feeling like he has to be perfect. So, he decides enough is enough! It’s time for him to make a change…
This is a funny and charming story that reminds us of the importance of balance, self-care, and accepting those we love (even if they are sometimes a bit rotten).
Perfect for reading aloud and shared story time!
Giraffes Can't Dance
Giraffes Can't Dance is a touching tale of Gerald the giraffe, who wants nothing more than to dance. With crooked knees and thin legs, it's harder for a giraffe than you would think. Gerald is finally able to dance to his own tune when he gets some encouraging words from an unlikely friend.With light-footed rhymes and high-stepping illustrations, this tale is gentle inspiration for every child with dreams of greatness.
I Believe I Can
by Grace Byers
I Believe I Can is an affirmation for boys and girls of every background to love and believe in themselves.
Actress and activist Grace Byers and artist Keturah A. Bobo return with another gorgeously illustrated new classic that’s the perfect gift for baby showers, birthdays, or just for reading at home again and again.
My presence matters in this world. I know I can do anything if only I believe I can.