10 Books that Build Self-Esteem in Kids

A great list of books that deal with self-esteem and embracing who you are!

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Giraffes Can’t Dance – This is one of my favorite books to read to my boys. The loveable main character, Gerald, shows that even though it can be hard, being different is okay and that everyone has something special to contribute. Such a sweet story, with a good message.

Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon – A story that emphasizes being proud of who you are and embracing your differences. A good read for a child struggling to be accepted at school.

 

Chrysanthemum is perfect for the young child who is dealing with bullying at school and struggling with self-esteem.

I’m Gonna Like Me: Letting Off a Little Self-Esteem A fun, rhyming book for young children that celebrates self-esteem and loving who you are.

The Invisible Boy– I absolutely love this book.  As a mom to two highly sensitive, quiet boys, I can see a little of both of them in the main character Brian. A great read that shows the power of kindness and friendship in helping to boost self-esteem.

Spoon tells the story of a spoon who feels unhappy because he feels his friends like knife and fork have more “exciting” jobs. Turns out that they feel the same way about spoon. A good story about self-esteem and appreciating ones own talents and differences.

Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun is a story about respecting and accepting each other’s differences and the courage to be yourself.

Have you Filled your Bucket Today? explains how we all have invisible buckets that need to be filled to be happy. It discusses how we can “fill” and “dip” into each others buckets and our own, through our behavior choices.

Smile – While the main character of this graphic novel deals with orthodontia, kids will be able to relate to the fears and pressures the character faces in middle school. A fun book to help children ages 8-12 love themselves for who they are, both on the inside and outside.

Wonder – You are likely familiar with this best-seller that was turned into a movie. A great book that reminds us all to choose kindness.