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At a glance

Kids with positive self-esteem feel good about themselves.

They're more motivated to keep trying and to ask for help.

You can help your child build positive self-esteem.

Self-esteem is how much people value themselves and how important they believe they are in their world. You might hear people talk about the importance of "positive self-esteem" in kids. But what exactly is it? And why does it matter so much?

Simply put, positive self-esteem is when people feel good about themselves. Learn more about positive self-esteem, and how to help your child build it.

Why positive self-esteem is important for kids

Kids with positive self-esteem feel confident and capable. They value themselves and their abilities. They're proud of the things they can do and want to try their best.

When kids are confident and secure about who they are, they're more likely to have a growth mindset. That means they can motivate themselves to take on new challenges and cope with and learn from mistakes. They're also more likely to stand up for themselves and ask for help when they need it.

How kids develop positive self-esteem

Kids develop positive self-esteem by working hard toward a goal and seeing their hard work pay off over and over again. Accomplishing things shows them they have what it takes to face new challenges. Their success makes them feel good about themselves, and they learn that it's even OK to fail.

When kids do well at something, it also pleases other people, like their friends and the adults who care about them. That feedback also makes them feel good. And over time, they continue to build positive self-esteem.

When kids have positive self-esteem they:

Feel respected

Are resilient and feel proud even when they make a mistake

Have a sense of control over activities and events in their life

Act independently

Take responsibility for their actions

Are comfortable and secure in forming relationships

Have the courage to make good decisions, even in the face of peer pressure

The toll of negative self-esteem on kids

Many kids have trouble building and maintaining positive self-esteem, for lots of reasons. One common reason is when kids struggle in school.

If kids experience failure in school, they probably don't get a lot of positive feedback from adults or their classmates. The feedback they do get is often negative because they're constantly hearing about the things they didn't do well.

In some cases, they might get positive feedback that's not sincere. This can make them mistrust the adults who are supposed to be helping them. Or they might become wary of the kids who are supposed to be their "friends."

As a result, they feel less sure of themselves and their abilities. They may not feel motivated to try things that are hard for them, and have a tough time dealing with mistakes. Deep down, they may not believe they're worthy of good treatment or success.

Kids who have negative self-esteem may also:

Feel frustrated, angry, anxious, or sad

Lose interest in learning

Have a hard time making and keeping friends

Be more likely to be teased or bullied

Become withdrawn or give in to peer pressure

Develop self-defeating ways to deal with challenges, like quitting, avoidance, silliness, and denial

Kids with negative self-esteem can also have a harder time standing up for themselves. In other words, they have trouble developing strong self-advocacy skills.

How to help your child build positive self-esteem

Kids can learn to improve how they see and value themselves. Being a supportive, realistic - but not overprotective - parent or caregiver is key. Asking teachers to be supportive but realistic is important, too.

Praise kids in ways that teach them to be proud of their efforts and accomplishments. But don't lavish praise on everything they do. Kids know when they've been successful and worked hard - and when they haven't.

Friendship is a big part of building positive self-esteem, too. Just having one friend who accepts you for who you are can make all the difference.

Looking for more resources on self-esteem?

Key takeaways

Positive self-esteem gives kids confidence to face challenges.

Kids who value themselves are more likely to ask for the help they need.

Being supportive but realistic is key to helping your child build positive self-esteem.

About the author

About the author

Bob Cunningham, EdM has been part of Understood since its founding. He's also been the chief administrator for several independent schools and a school leader in general and special education.

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Learn what self-esteem is and why positive self-esteem is so important for kids. Find out how kids develop self-esteem. And get tips to help your child build positive self-esteem.

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A great tool for understanding the different ways people think and learn.

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Understood - For Learning and Thinking Differences

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Understood.org is the resource that helps the 70 million people with learning and thinking differences anticipate the challenges, barriers, or opportunities in life and confidently reach their potential.

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Confidence & Self-Esteem - Child Mind Institute

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Resources to help children build confidence and self-esteem, counter the undermining effect of social media, and develop skills.

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What is Self-Esteem: How To Feel Awesome About You

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The Affirmations Song | FULL SONG | Doggyland Kids Songs & Nursery Rhymes by Snoop Dogg

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Here is a list of 110 positive affirmations for kids to help your child's all-round development and shape them to be happy, confident individuals.

I found out about positive affirmations in my late teens and they have been quite helpful for me in building self-esteem, dealing with negative thoughts, and becoming a more loving friend to myself. I wish I had found them much sooner.

Here is a list of 110 positive affirmations for kids to ensure that they receive something that can create a strong and empowering foundation for the rest of their life.

Positive affirmations are one of the most-loved parts of my FREE💗 21-day Self Love Course. Students experience guided affirmations audio sessions every day ranging from topics like self-love, confidence, self-acceptance, self-worth, etc.

How to use positive affirmations for kids

1. Paste post-it notes on your fridge and encourage your child to take a look at them regularly.

2. Leave notes in their tiffin box with positive affirmations.

3. Have painting sessions where they draw these affirmations. Frame it and hang it up on a wall the child frequently spends time around.

4. Ask them to keep a journal where they write these affirmations and do the same yourself.

5. Take out 5 minutes every day to sit together and repeat these affirmations. You can also use our Gratitude app which lets you write, record, and play your affirmations.

6. Remind them of these affirmations in relevant situations so that they pick up the habit of practicing them.

Ready? Here are your 110 positive affirmations for kids:

Positive Affirmations For Kids

1. Everything is fine.

2. My voice matters.

3. I accept myself for who I am.

4. I am building my future.

5. I choose to think positively.

6. My happiness is up to me.

7. I start with a positive mindset.

8. Anything is possible.

9. I radiate positive energy.

10. Wonderful things are going to happen to me.

11. I can take deep breaths.

12. With every breath, I feel stronger.

13. I only compare myself to myself.

14. I can do anything.

15. It is enough to do my best.

16. I can be anything I want to be.

17. I accept who I am.

18. I believe in myself.

19. I am proud of myself.

20. I deserve to be happy.

21. I am free to make my own choices.

22. I deserve to be loved.

23. I can make a difference.

24. Today I am a leader.

25. I forgive myself for my mistakes.

26. My challenges help me grow.

27. I am perfect just the way I am.

28. My mistakes help me learn and grow.

29. I get better every single day.

30. I am an amazing person.

31. My thoughts and feelings are important.

32. I know right from wrong.

33. I can learn anything I put my mind to.

34. I engage in small acts of kindness to uplift other people.

35. I have a big heart.

36. My life is beautiful.

37. I love myself just as I love others.

38. I am safe and cared for.

39. I can ask for support.

40. I can't control other people, but I can control how I respond to them.

41. There are many exciting experiences awaiting me.

42. I can find humor in the day-to-day.

43. I am a good listener.

44. I can ask for a hug when I'm sad.

45. I would want to be my friend.

Positive Affirmations for Kids about Confidence

1. I believe in myself.

2. I am healthy and happy.

3. I am smart and do great at school.

4. I am full of great ideas and thoughts.

5. I have the power to create anything I desire.

6. I am playful, fun, and creative.

7. I am unique and special.

8. I have the confidence to be myself.

9. My life is fun and filled with joy.

10. I am proud of the person I am becoming.

11. I am safe, protected, and loved.

12. I love making new friends.

13. I deserve good things to happen in my life.

14. I am a fast learner.

15. I love to learn new things.

16. I make learning fun and creative.

17. I have a strong focus and sharp memory.

18. I can do anything I set my mind to.

19. I easily pick up on new information.

20. I have an unlimited potential within me.

21. I have many talents.

22. I have amazing abilities.

23. I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

24. I am wonderful just as I am.

25. I feel happy and excited to experience new things.

Morning Positive Affirmations for Kids

1. I am so happy to be alive.

2. I am looking forward to today.

3. I am grateful for my family.

4. I am excited to go to school.

5. I believe in myself.

6. I am a caring person.

7. I am ready to start the day.

8. Life is a beautiful gift.

9. I am surrounded by positive and loving people.

10. I will make the most of this day.

Related: Top 20 Feel-Good Quotes to Make Your Day

Positive Affirmations for Kids about Self Esteem

1. I am brave.

2. I am smart.

3. I matter.

4. I am proud of myself.

5. I am important.

6. I am appreciated.

7. I am creative.

8. I am patient.

9. My opinion matters.

10. I am valued.

11. I am honest.

12. I am helpful.

13. I am determined.

14. I am a good friend.

15. I am blessed.

16. I am loved.

17. My ideas are valued.

18. I am happy.

19. Today, I will shine.

20. My future is bright.

Related: 100 Self-Love Affirmations for Higher Self-Esteem

Positive Affirmations to Say to Your Child

1. You can always feel comfortable sharing your thoughts, ideas, and feelings.

2. You are accepted and loved for who you are.

3. You deserve the best things in the world.

4. You are loved, protected, and safe.

5. You will always have support for achieving your goals and realizing your dreams.

6. You will make a positive impact on the world.

7. You are a wonderful human being and people around you are blessed to have you in their lives.

8. You are a natural winner.

9. The world is full of endless possibilities.

10. Your voice is always heard with respect and equal value.

Continue Reading: 7 Ways to Be a Good Friend to Yourself From Today

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110 Positive Affirmations For Kids and their Well Being

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Here is a list of 110 positive affirmations for kids to help your child's all-round development and shape them to be happy, confident individuals. I found out about positive affirmations in my late teens and they have been quite helpful for me in building self-esteem, dealing with negative thoughts, and becoming a more loving friend to myself.

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How to Use Positive Affirmations for a Better Wellbeing

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How to Use Positive Affirmations for a Better Wellbeing

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You may not think that daily mantras can make much of a difference but using positive affirmations for children can be life-changing!
By using daily positive affirmations for kids you can help to develop a growth mindset and improve their attitude. Positive thinking quotes are a powerful social-emotional learning tool that can have a profound impact on mental health and wellbeing.

What are Positive Affirmations?

Affirmations are positive phrases or statements that you say to yourself to challenge unhelpful or negative thoughts. You may choose to use them to motivate yourself, encourage positive changes or boost your self-esteem. If you often find yourself getting caught up in negative self-talk, affirming phrases can be used to assist you. You can train your brain to think in a more positive and beneficial way to promote wellbeing.

Put simply, an affirmation is to affirm to oneself. Positive words that are absorbed by the mind to create your belief system.

How Do Affirmations Work?

Once affirmations are learned, they work by coming to mind when a belief is challenged.

If you tell yourself "I am wonderful just the way I am", but you are told you are stupid, the affirmation will be recalled to remind you of your belief. Instead, you will think, "I'm not stupid, I am wonderful!"

Without a positive belief, you may take on the one you just heard and start to believe that you are stupid. The more you repeat positive or negative phrases, the stronger it becomes.

It is important that we learn to take control of our belief systems and the younger that we learn, the easier it is. It can be as simple as affirming the positive beliefs that we would like to grow up with. Negative beliefs can impact our lives greatly and can be hard to shift as we grow older.

Affirmations are a powerful and holistic way of building a positive mind and happier children. Nurturing their authentic self and helping them to enjoy the magic of childhood.

The Science Behind Affirmations

One of the key psychological theories is 'self-affirmations theory' ( Steele 1988). There are studies that show that we can maintain our self-esteem and integrity by telling ourselves - affirming, positive thoughts. The development of this theory has led to neuroscientific research, aimed at seeing changes in the brain when we say affirmations. There is MRI evidence that shows certain neural pathways are increased in the prefrontal cortex when people practice self-affirmations.

Science also notes the effect they have on your mood and feelings. They are a simple tool that can literally turn around your habitual negative thoughts. Replacing them with positive thoughts can assist you with self-regulation, self-worth, self-awareness, and self-confidence.

Saying positive phrases to yourself can also help you move through tricky situations. "I can do this!"

What We Think About Ourselves is How We Develop

If we feel we are worthless, we will behave like we are worthless. If we believe that we are special and loved, we will behave like we are special and loved.

This is why affirmations are so important to help children develop positive foundations on which to grow. Once they have matured, it is hard to change those foundations.

Morning affirmations for kids provide the opportunity to learn to look at themselves in the mirror. This is the most effective way to say them and learning to do this as a child makes it much easier to do. Many of us find it quite confronting to look ourselves in the eyes, let alone say "I love you" as we do.

Why are Positive Affirmations for Children Important?

This leads to the next benefit of positive daily affirmations. They teach us positive self-talk, to speak to ourselves with kindness. As we grow, we can develop a habit of criticising ourselves, harming our own self-confidence and lowering our resilience.

Children must learn positive self-talk from a young age to prevent self-criticism. Self-confidence affirmations can help build a strong and positive belief system that is created from within.

As bullying is such a huge issue that many children face at some time, self-confidence is the very thing that will help them deal from these situations. Keeping a positive mind is essential. This can be really difficult when children are dealing with anti-social behavior. By developing positive mental pathways, children are more resilient and self-assured, coping much better than if they had a low self-esteem.

Many children who bully lack confidence, feel a need to belittle others to make themselves feel better and more in control. Children with a positive self-image feel less inclined to bully others. Uniting a class with a quick two-minute affirmation at the start of a school day could make the world of difference to troubled children.

FREE Kindness Affirmations Coloring Pages to Download

Creating an inner confidence as children can shape our whole life. Every aspect of our life is affected by our self-confidence. It affects our ability to learn and participate at school, socially, creatively, our relationships, achieving our goals and dreams, and most importantly our standards. With little self-confidence, we often lower our standards or 'settle' for what we believe is achievable.

Just a few positive words spoken to ourselves each day can, amazingly, make such a difference to our whole body, our mind, our heart and physically too. There is much research on how the heart and mind are wired to communicate and how a happy and positive mind can improve overall health.

Make today the day that you try affirmations for children's health. Helping them to shine with confidence as the unique individuals that they are.

How to Explain Affirmations to a Child

If you're looking for an affirmations definition for kids, try the following:

Positive affirmations are like magic words that we say to ourselves to make us feel happy, confident, and strong. It's like giving ourselves a friendly pep talk to remind us how amazing we are!

For example, when you wake up in the morning, you can look in the mirror and say, 'I am awesome!' or 'I am brave!' These words help you start your day feeling really good about yourself.

And if you ever feel worried or scared about something, you can say, 'I am strong,' or 'I can do this!' That way, you'll feel more confident and ready to face challenges.

Positive affirmations are like little secret spells that make you feel happier and believe in yourself. So, whenever you need a boost of positivity, just remember to say your special words, and you'll see how wonderful they can make you feel!"

How to Teach Positive Affirmations to Children

Positive phrases can be implemented into your daily routines very easily and only take a few minutes each day. They can also be used as a quick and easy brain-break when you need to help children settle and regain focus during a task that requires them to pay attention for long periods of time.

Introducing Positive Self-Talk

It is a good idea to talk to your children about how to use an affirm so they understand what they are for and how they work. Keep it fun and encouraging.
"Affirmations teach you new and positive ways of thinking. They can help you believe in yourself, feel happy and help you to feel better when you are angry or sad. Let's try them and see what we think!" "Affirmations encourage kind and happy ways of thinking, you will remember them when you need them most."
Another way to introduce them is to place positive affirmation cards for kids around the house in areas that they will see them. Just reading the words will help them affirm positive beliefs. On the mirror in the bathroom is a great spot or on the breakfast table.

It will also help if you were to lead by example and read the affirmations as well. You may like to do repeat your positive messages together. You may find that this allows you the chance to discuss emotions or issues that they may be experiencing, opening doors for conversation. Working together on improving your thoughts may just have you shine together.

Examples of Empowering Affirmations for Children

A daily affirmation for kids may be just a few simple words, but they can pack a powerful punch if used consistently. Parents and teachers can use positive affirmation cards or print positive messages on post-it notes to help their children develop a positive mindset and outlook. Here is a list of affirmations for positive self-talk sticky notes:

Looking in the Mirror

One of the most valuable lessons affirmations offer, is being comfortable looking at yourself in the mirror and learning positive self-talk (talking to yourself with kindness and positivity). Many of us find it hard to look at our reflection without being critical, judgmental, or negative about ourselves.

Affirmations are the most powerful when we say the words to ourselves whilst looking into a mirror. These positive words are literally building our own self-belief. Young children introduced to this concept feel more comfortable and far less confronted looking at themselves in the mirror. If you find that your children feel it is difficult to look in the mirror to say them, it is best not to push them. Self-affirming phrases are still very effective by just reading the words aloud to yourself. Children that are visually impaired will use this technique.

Repeating Affirmations

Affirmations are more effective when repeated and it's best to repeat self-affirming words 3 times, saying the words louder and with more confidence each time. This helps affirm the belief. You may like to work on one affirmation a day or one a week, depending on how confident your child is with each one. If they seem to struggle with a particular one you may like to continue working on that one longer.

Helpful Tips

You could also take a little time to discuss the affirmation and how your child feels about it. Perhaps even write a long list of their qualities to help boost their confidence and help them to recognize their values. Some children may prefer to work on the affirmations on their own and this is ok too.

It is important to show respect for your child and their feelings and not to push them too hard if they're feeling uncomfortable. Self-affirmation should always be introduced in a fun and exciting way. Use them to help children to learn about the benefits of positive mental health and be the best that they can by nurturing happy and positive feelings.

Affirmation cards should never be used for punishment, in time out, or in relation to any bad behavior. As they are such a wonderful tool, it is important not to bring a negative tone to them.

Young Children

Children using affirmations under the age of 5 or 6 when they're not yet reading can be read the words by their parents for them to repeat. This works very well and affirmations used at this age create strong and healthy foundation.

DISCLAIMER: This post may include affiliate links. A small percentage of each sale from these links helps me provide tips and freebies for parents and teachers.

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